Painting With

Released in 2016, Painting With represents Animal Collective's most significant departure from their signature 'cavernous' sound. Recorded at EastWest Studios in Los Angeles, the album was intentionally designed to be 'short, fast, and punchy,' drawing inspiration from early punk and the directness of the Ramones, despite being an electronic pop record. The core trio of Avey Tare, Panda Bear, and Geologist utilized a massive array of modular synthesizers to create a sound that is both prehistoric and futuristic. A defining characteristic of the album is the absence of reverb, a tool the band had used extensively for over a decade. This 'dry' aesthetic highlights the intricate hocketing vocal arrangements, a technique where two singers alternate notes or syllables to create a single melodic line. Featuring guests like John Cale and Colin Stetson, the album polarized fans but remains a singular, high-concept entry in their discography that prioritizes rhythm and texture over atmosphere.