Released: April 5, 2024

Genre: Electronic / Post-Punk

From: London, UK

Label: Warp Records

A few thoughts: Electronic music pioneers Mount Kimbie have never shied away from experimenting with their sound, with each album they’ve released since their 2010 album Crooks & Lovers being more experimental and eclectic than the other. The Sunset Violent is one of their punchiest and moodiest to date. With shoegaze and post-punk influences throughout, the album is their most guitar-driven and rock-oriented album to date, with immersive guitar leads and melodies that capture a moodiness and beauty of their music, released at the right season. Colourful and and with major springtime energy, their fourth studio album is a blissful and beautiful listening experience. The album kicks off with fuzzy guitars leads and subtle vocals that add to the driving beat and guitar leads throughout. It’s an energetic opener that sets the tone of the album nicely. “Dumb Guitar” has incredibly infectious synths and guitar leads that complement the dreamy vocals throughout. It’s a phenomenal cut, with swirling electronic effects and a catchy melody and introspective lyricism. “Shipwreck” another great cut, with wailing, fuzzy guitars and a rhythm and tone that is poignant. “Boxing” featuring King Krule is another great moment, with fuzzy, distorted guitars and Archy’s usually emotive, low-register singing. “Got Me” has an unassuming piano-driven melody that sounds eerie but is complemented by infectious drumming and subtle vocals throughout. The jumpy melody and rhythms on “A Figure in the Surf” is another great moment, and the driving guitars and vocals make for a reflective listen. The fuzziness and guitar leads on “Fishbrain” are great too, while “Yukka Tree” is a groovy, fiery moment with swirling synth and guitar leads that are punchy and incredibly emotive. The synth-led start of the closer “Empty and Silent” featuring King Krule is beautiful and when the drums and groove kick in, make for an impactful and incredibly groovy listen, with infectious moody vocals that feel reflective and introspective. It’s a beautiful way to close the album out, and one that captures both the intensity and wonder of their expansive and utterly immersive sound. The Sunset Violent is a textured and immersive listening experience that further proves the importance of Mount Kimbie’s legacy.

The album: