Glass Animals, Youth | Track Review 🎵

[usr 4.5]

Glass Animals outdoes itself on single “Youth.” “Youth” is cleverly penned, exceptionally produced, and superbly performed when it’s all said and done.  

At the end of August, up-and-coming alternative band, Glass Animals, releases its sophomore album, How to Be A Human Being.  Leading the charge for album no. 2 is second single, “Youth.” Cutting straight to the chase, “Youth” is “da bomb diggity – no doubt!”

Throughout “Youth,” Dave Bayley’s vocals are haunting – perfectly suited for this record. Adding to his terrific vocal performance, there is a warmth about “Youth” – warm vibes if you will. Exceptionally produced, the groove is a selling point, filled with world percussion cues.

Besides the production and pitch-perfect performance, the theme and background of “Youth” “brings it on home.” The record is about a mother giving up her child.

“Boy, when I left you, you were young / I was gone, but not my love / you were clearly meant for more / than a life lost in the war”

Naturally, the lyrics embrace the innocence and greatness of youth – literally childhood. The maternal protagonist clearly outlines her hopes for her son, despite her absence:

“Fly / feel your mother at your side / don’t you know you got my eyes / I’ll make you fly / you’ll be happy all the time / I know you can make it right”

Another highlight in addition to the chorus is the pre-chorus and bridge section, where mom (Bayley) continues to express her maternal hopes for her son:

“Boy, I want you to be happy / free to run, get dizzy on caffeine / funny friends that make you laugh…”

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, “Youth” is magnificent through and through.  It’s cleverly penned and exceptionally produced. Additionally, Dave Bayley gives a superb vocal performance. “Youth” is nothing short of a home run.

Glass Animals • How to Be a Human Being • Harvest • Release: 8.26.16

Photo Credit: Harvest