Caribou: The Milk of Human Kindness (2005)

Caribou: The Milk Of Human Kindness
Label: Domino USA
Catalog#: DNO050CD
Format: CD
Country: US
Released: Apr 2005
Genre: Electronic, Rock
Style: Leftfield, Downtempo, Indie Rock

Tracklisting:
1. Yeti
2. Subotnick
3. A Final Warning
4. Lord Leopard
5. Bees
6. Hands First
7. Hello Hammerheads
8. Brahminy Kite
9. Drumheller
10. Pelican Narrows
11. Barnowl

This new record from former Manitoba involvee Dan Snaith is a relatively short, naturalistic trip. The track titles, artwork, and music evoke usually-innocent pastel mind-wanderings, complete with background saturation and effects. Several of the tracks are short interludes which despite their short length are very enjoyable to listen to. "Subotnick", "Bees", and "Hello Hammerheads" employ sparse vocals which lend the album a more personal feel. "Lord Leopard" employs a straight hip hop beat to carry a nearly Baroque harpsichord melody, resulting in an ironically catchy product. Other standout tracks include "Drumheller" which is likewise a very short track but is calm and evoking with its soft melodies and unique sixteen beat. "Pelican Narrows" is perhaps the best track, utilizing Four Tet-esque analog acoustics to create a fuzzy, warm, happy feeling.

Perhaps the only negative aspect of THE MILK OF HUMAN KINDNESS is its relatively short length. However, it is certainly a well-worthy purchase.

Recommended.