Music > Album Reviews

Flume - Skin

02/06/16

Having never been a big fan of Flume, I was actually really excited to listen to his latest album Skin; all my mates have always loved him so I was eager to give him another shot. Having listened to the album, I can’t say I’m a miracle convert, but Flume is clearly a talented producer of electronic music and his unique style is a welcome addition to the scene. He draws from a range of sounds including dubstep to indie pop, hip hop to alternative, weaving them together sometimes erratically but often effectively.  

Following an intro that seems to be compromised entirely of a space movie sound effect board, we are given the fantastic single Never Be Like You featuring Kai, whose haunting vocals are layered silkily over staccato synths and buzzing drums. The song has been a radio favourite and is undeniably catchy. Flume likes to use complex patterns of sound, bursting synths and techno-esque keyboard melodies, and sometimes it all gets a bit chaotic. It works so much better with a strong vocal to keep the track centred, provided in exquisite fashion by collaboration with newly resurgent AlunaGeorge, as well as by rising-star Tove Lo on Say It.

When Flume goes it alone, the frantic sounds layered in stuttering rhythms can sometimes be too overwhelming. Interestingly titled Wall Fuck does indeed sound like its producer’s head had had an unfortunate run-in with a wall just before its creation. I’m all for experimentation and pushing boundaries, but for me this is too much and disrupts the powerfully energetic but melancholy vibe other tracks help to build. I had to turn Free off half-way through, that same energy which Flume normally manages to channel effectively is let free on a track that doesn’t add much to the album.

Back to the good bits though, Flume taps into some Hip Hop talent with features from Vic Mensa and Vince Staples on Lose It and Smoke & Retribution respectively. The bounce of Hip Hop’s bars compliment Flume’s rhythmic structure which favours staggered patterns. You Know also features rappers Allan Kingdom and Raekwon, with chilling violin sounds, subtle bass and a vibe that’s straight outta Compton.

An interesting album to say the least, with great examples of dance music done right, but a few examples of album tracks which just miss the mark.

7/10