A Different Kind of Human (Step 2) cover

A Different Kind of Human (Step 2)

AURORA · 2019

40 min · 11 tracks · indie pop

Ethereal melodies blend with pulsating beats, creating a dreamlike soundscape that embodies both whimsy and introspection.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Animal — This track showcases AURORA's ability to fuse primal instincts with electronic sounds, embodying the theme of embracing one's true nature through its infectious rhythm.
  • →
    The Seed — A powerful commentary on nature and sustainability, this song layers lush harmonies over a driving beat, making it both an anthem for change and a haunting reflection on humanity's impact.
  • →
    Dance on the Moon — With its whimsical lyrics and upbeat tempo, this track captures a sense of childlike wonder and escapism, representing the album's overall exploration of joy amidst turmoil.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100
Treeline
Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

AURORA's second album showcases strong melodies and cohesive soundscapes, enhancing her unique style within indie pop.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks build a rhythmic momentum with layered synths and percussion, while the fourth track introduces a more subdued, reflective tone.
  • Several tracks feature vocal harmonies that create an ethereal quality, particularly in 'In Bottles' and 'The Seed'.
  • The album closes with 'Mothership', which features a gradual fade-out, leaving a lingering sense of introspection.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady exploration of identity
  • ethereal soundscapes for reflection
  • vibrant sonic journey with peaks
  • inviting sing-along moments
  • thoughtful themes for introspection

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking high-energy tracks
  • prefer standalone singles

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This album solidified AURORA's reputation in contemporary music after her debut.
Career context
Released on June 7, 2019, A Different Kind of Human (Step 2) is AURORA's second studio album, following her debut All My Demons Greeting Me as a Friend in 2016. By this time, she had established herself as an innovative artist within the alternative pop scene, gaining a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim for her unique sound and thematic depth.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 The River 3:37
  • 2 Animal 3:35
  • 3 Dance on the Moon 3:36
  • 4 Daydreamer 3:39
  • 5 Hunger 2:46
  • 6 Soulless Creatures 5:02
  • 7 In Bottles 3:58
  • 8 A Different Kind of Human 4:01
  • 9 Apple Tree 3:08
  • 10 The Seed 4:26
  • 11 Mothership 2:16

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata