Ariel Pink’s Haunted Graffiti

VIMTV Album Review #520: Ariel Pink’s Haunted Graffiti – Mature Themes

Jake: 84/100

Tom: 79/100

Verdict: If you like weird yet well-crafted music, check this out.

Overview: Ariel Pink is back with Mature Themes! This record expands on 2010′s Before Today by becoming much more of a focused effort. It was clearly evident to us that there was exceptional attention paid to the songwriting and production. Crazy, quirky lyrics experimental songwriting in 1960′s throw-back vibe is part of Ariel Pinks m o. That stays the same on this record, but its way more professionally presented. This is a detailed listen that requires you to come back to it a few times and is definitely NOT background music. Give this one a few good chances and you will be rewarded with a great album that you simply can’t get out of your head.

Jake’s Track Picks:

3. Mature Themes
5. Driftwood
7. Schnitzel Boogie
12. Nostradamus & Me

Tom’s Track Picks:

3. Mature Themes
4. Only in my Dreams
5. Driftwood
6. Early Birds of Babylon

Only in my Dreams

VIMTV Episode #161: Ariel Pink’s Haunted Graffiti – Before Today

Jake: Recommended, 73/100

Tom: Not Recommended, 58/100

Overview: Ariel Pink’s Haunted Graffiti is truly like nothing else you’ll ever listen to. On their album Before Today, they take a minimalistic approach in the production department, but go over the top with the details in their compositions. This creates a kind of lo-fi disco sound, but it lacks a lot of clear hooks and structure. This will be a very alluring attribute for some, and it will drive away others. This album truly relies on if you can get into the sound, but whether you do or don’t, Ariel Pink’s Haunted Graffiti clearly display a lot of creativity and originality.

Recommended Similar Artists: The Magnetic Fields, Syd Barret, Of Montreal, Ween

Jake’s Track Picks: