Platinum-selling electronic duo Marian Hill return after over a year's absence with their sophomore album, Unusual. Over 10 taut tracks including lead single "Subtle Thing," the act solidifies their position as a singular voice in modern pop - each song a unique journey into a very particular world. Samantha Gongol's vocals are more effortlessly precise than ever as she sculpts the sound of every word with power and attitude. Jeremy Lloyd's meticulous minimalism has grown harder and more propulsive - each beat dares you not to dance with surprises around every corner, pulling on diverse influences from jazz, electronic and hip hop while bringing to mind 00s Timbaland updated for the 23rd century.
The songs they write together parse the complexities in relationships and gender dynamics through subtle and empowering lyrics, with melodies that feel like an old friend you've never met before. The entirety of Unusual was produced by Lloyd, with the exception of "Differently" which features additional production from Boi-1da. As has become tradition for Marion Hill, the only features are from saxophonist Steve Davit - his quick riffs evolving into vivid squeaks and squomps. Unusual expands the world of Marian Hill, soothing us with familiarity while turning directly sideways into something wondrous and wtf.