Disclosure: Caracal ALBUM REVIEW

Disclosure are two brothers who made a name for themselves a couple of years ago with their debut album Settle, and album that had some fantastic singles, launched not only their careers, but also the illustrious career of chart-topper Sam Smith with his feature on that album's biggest single "Latch". In short, it has been quite a wild ride for this duo.

And they have finally graced us with another LP, but unlike their last album which was entrenched in the sounds of late 90's drum and bass, with constant rhythms that forced one's booty to shake, the follow-up, Caracal, is a far more subdued release.  Don't get me wrong, there are still moments that force those familiar twitches in the hips, but they are a lot more subtle and require more attention than the vast majority of what was on Settle.

While this has certainly led to a lot of people not really caring for this album, I actually find it to be a refreshing change of pace. Because lets face it; if the brothers simply released another Settle, everyone would simply call them a one trick pony. And while I do understand the sentiment behind criticism  that label this album as not being "as fun" as the last LP, I have to point out the fact that while this album certainly isn't as bright and driving as Settle, it makes up for it with deeper, more involved beats and some really fantastic guest performances and the band's knack for sharp, concise production.

For example, the track "Omen" another Sam Smith feature, sees just how far both artists have come, with Disclosure dishing up a more seductive beat than "Latch" and Sam Smith's singing adding another intoxicating layer on top of it. Sure, the subject matter is nothing new, but I can't help but get caught up in just how immaculate it all sounds. The tack "Holding On" is another fantastic example of the duos production and penchant for using vocal guests to their full potential; also the contribution from singer Gregory Porter is probably the best on the entire album.

Other strong tracks include the Miguel featured "Good Intentions", which is far more impressive than anything from his latest album, and while the lyrics are sort of basic, I really liked the track "Jaded"; a track that is one of only two that don't feature an outside vocal contribution.

And therein lies my only complaint, Caracal doesn't have as many moments where it's just the duo, instead the album is absolutely overflowing with features, which isn't bad if the features are good, but some of my favorite moments from the last album were the ones where you got to see the brothers do what they do best.

However, I still found myself enjoying this LP a great deal. Is it better than Settle? Maybe. But honestly, if I want to listen to an album like Settle... I'll listen to Settle. Caracal is worth listening to, regardless of how you felt about the last album.

8.8/10