ALBUM REVIEW: 45 – Anavae

In a musical landscape dominated by bands and solo artists, sometimes it takes a duo to provide a fresh perspective packaged in a fresher sound. From THE BLACK KEYS, ROYAL BLOOD, and THE WHITE STRIPES mixing up the rock and blues scene, RUN THE JEWELS tearing up hip hop, and the likes of BOARDS OF CANADA and CRYSTAL CASTLES expanding the electronica ranks; duos have a long history of exploding onto the scene and rapidly making a name for themselves. The next artist tirelessly working to etch their name alongside the greats is London-based electronic rock duo Anavae, with their long awaited-debut album 45.

With two EPs and multiple tours under their belt, it’s fair to say that ANAVAE have had some time to refine and focus their sound since their formation in 2011. Right from the beginning of 45 the band’s experience clearly shines through as the album carries with it a distinct sleekness that would normally be indicative of a band on their third or fourth album rather than their debut. Stylistically, the band would be well at home alongside the likes of PVRIS or AGAINST THE CURRENT, with the backbone of the tracks comprised of electronic elements and fleshed out with driven guitars that give the band a truly larger than life sound.

The two leading singles from the album High and more recently Not Enough are incredible examples of the heights the band are capable of reaching and set the bar exceptionally high before 45 was even released. With tracks like Human and Smile, ANAVAE confidently smash any and all expectations placed on them before release and the album as a whole exists as an impressive, focussed, and consistent piece of work that is sure to set them up as one of the next big artists to come out of the UK.

Over the course of 45, the band’s inherent versatility shines through while also managing to maintain their unique essence. From the subdued, downtempo tracks like Skeleton and Night, to the anthemic Never Want to Love Again, the band display every aspect of their multifaceted sound. From start to finish, 45 is an album where each track seeks to bring something new to the table and add another dimension to the band’s sound – and that’s what makes ANAVAE so hard to pin to any one genre. The band have enough mass appeal to make themselves a name known throughout the UK and beyond, while still maintaining a voice that is uniquely and unmistakeably them. 45 can easily hold its own amongst the bands whose popularity spans multiple continents and for a debut, what more could you ask?

Despite ANAVAE being a duo, the band cultivate a vast, boundless sound that can easily be pictured ringing out around arenas amongst the roar of an adoring crowd. While the band may have an existing reputation due to their touring and previous EPs, this album will be many peoples first introduction to the band – and what a perfect first impression to make. 45 is packed with memorable moments, huge anthems, and flashes of dark introspection that make the album a truly compelling, impressive listen.

Rating: 8/10

45 is out now via A Wolf At Your Door Records.

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