glass animals how to be a human being vinyl: A Sonic Journey Through the Fragility of Existence
Glass Animals’ How to Be a Human Being is not just an album; it is a vinyl experience that encapsulates the fragility, absurdity, and beauty of human existence. Released in 2016, this record is a kaleidoscope of sounds, stories, and emotions, all pressed into the grooves of a vinyl that demands to be heard, felt, and pondered upon. The vinyl format, with its tactile and immersive qualities, amplifies the album’s themes of identity, connection, and the chaotic dance of life. Let’s dive into the many layers of this masterpiece and explore why it resonates so deeply with listeners.
The Concept: A Mosaic of Human Stories
At its core, How to Be a Human Being is a concept album that explores the lives of various fictional characters, each representing a different facet of humanity. The vinyl format enhances this narrative by creating a sense of intimacy and continuity. As the needle drops, you’re not just listening to music; you’re stepping into a world where every track is a vignette, a snapshot of someone’s life. From the introspective “Life Itself” to the chaotic “Youth,” the album is a journey through the highs and lows of being human.
The vinyl’s side A and side B structure mirrors the duality of human existence. Side A is vibrant, energetic, and slightly chaotic, reflecting the external struggles and joys of life. Side B, on the other hand, delves deeper into introspection and vulnerability, culminating in the hauntingly beautiful “Agnes.” This intentional sequencing makes the vinyl experience feel like a story unfolding, one that you can’t pause or skip—a reminder of life’s relentless forward motion.
The Sound: A Vinyl-Worthy Sonic Landscape
Glass Animals’ signature blend of psychedelic pop, electronic beats, and soulful melodies is perfectly suited for vinyl. The warmth and depth of the analog sound bring out the intricate layers of production that might be lost in digital formats. Tracks like “Season 2 Episode 3” and “Pork Soda” are rich with textures—basslines that rumble, synths that shimmer, and vocals that float effortlessly. The vinyl format captures these nuances, making the listening experience feel almost tactile.
Moreover, the album’s use of unconventional sounds—sampled dialogue, animal noises, and everyday objects—creates a surreal soundscape that feels alive. On vinyl, these elements are more pronounced, adding to the album’s dreamlike quality. It’s as if the vinyl itself is a character in the story, whispering secrets and amplifying emotions.
The Artwork: A Visual Companion to the Vinyl Experience
The vinyl edition of How to Be a Human Being is a work of art in itself. The cover, featuring a collage of faces, mirrors the album’s theme of diverse human experiences. Opening the gatefold reveals more intricate artwork, each piece corresponding to a track on the album. This visual storytelling complements the music, creating a multi-sensory experience that digital formats simply cannot replicate.
The tactile nature of vinyl—holding the record, placing it on the turntable, and watching it spin—adds a ritualistic element to the listening process. It forces you to slow down and engage with the music on a deeper level, much like how the album encourages you to reflect on what it means to be human.
The Themes: Universality and Vulnerability
One of the most striking aspects of How to Be a Human Being is its ability to balance universal themes with deeply personal narratives. The characters in the album are flawed, messy, and real, yet their stories resonate with anyone who has ever questioned their place in the world. The vinyl format enhances this connection by creating a sense of timelessness. These stories could belong to anyone, anywhere, at any point in history.
The album also explores vulnerability in a way that feels both raw and comforting. Tracks like “Agnes” and “Mama’s Gun” delve into themes of loss, mental health, and self-discovery. On vinyl, these songs feel even more intimate, as if the artist is speaking directly to you. The crackles and pops of the record add an extra layer of authenticity, reminding you that imperfection is part of the human experience.
The Legacy: Why Vinyl Matters
In an age of streaming and instant gratification, How to Be a Human Being on vinyl is a reminder of the value of slowing down and savoring art. The album’s themes of connection and introspection are amplified by the vinyl format, which demands your full attention. It’s not just an album; it’s an experience, a meditation on what it means to be human.
The resurgence of vinyl in recent years speaks to a collective longing for something tangible and meaningful in an increasingly digital world. Glass Animals’ How to Be a Human Being is a perfect example of how vinyl can elevate music, turning it into something more than just sound—it becomes a memory, a feeling, a piece of your soul.
Q&A
Q: Why does How to Be a Human Being work so well on vinyl?
A: The album’s rich production, thematic depth, and narrative structure are perfectly suited for the vinyl format, which enhances its warmth, intimacy, and immersive qualities.
Q: What makes the vinyl artwork special?
A: The intricate collage and gatefold design visually represent the album’s themes of diversity and human connection, adding another layer to the listening experience.
Q: How does the vinyl format change the way you listen to the album?
A: Vinyl forces you to engage with the music more intentionally, creating a ritualistic and reflective experience that aligns with the album’s introspective themes.
Q: Is How to Be a Human Being a good introduction to Glass Animals?
A: Absolutely. The album showcases the band’s unique sound and storytelling abilities, making it a great starting point for new listeners.