Style: Synth-pop, new wave; compare to Anathallo, Passion Pit, MGMT, M83, Sleeping at Last
Top tracks: “Sail to the End,” “Clothed in Skin,” “My Name Is Eustace!”
Benjamin Dunn and the Animal Orchestra’s new album is welcome relief for anyone who’s wished the worship music community would do, well, more. Dunn’s synth-pop melodies create an album that’s child-like without being childish, declaring the gospel in a way that’s neither patronizing nor preachy. Inspired by C. S. Lewis’ beloved characters, Dunn’s lyrics drip with classic allegories of redemption. He sings, “You came and dressed me in love again / I’m not used to this grace that makes death die” (“My Name Is Eustace!”) Fable plays like a voyage through Narnia, with ships that sail and lions that save, all encased in an orchestra of warm synthesizers, hopeful voices, airy strings, and a dance-worthy beat.
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