What makes Honeycomb / Gotham by Animal Collective notable?

The release was well-received, highlighting Animal Collective's influence on the experimental pop genre and solidifying their status in the indie music scene. The title track 'Honeycomb' was particularly noted for its infectious melodies and inventive production, contributing to the band's legacy as pioneers in blending various musical styles. Released in 2012, Honeycomb / Gotham represents Animal Collective's continued evolution after their critically acclaimed album Merriweather Post Pavilion. This two-track EP followed a period of experimentation, showcasing their ability to fuse art rock with electronic elements while maintaining their signature psychedelic sound.

How many songs are on Honeycomb / Gotham?

Honeycomb / Gotham has 2 tracks, running approximately 8 minutes.

Honeycomb / Gotham

Animal Collective · 2012

8 min · 2 tracks · electronic music

A surreal blend of shimmering textures and off-kilter rhythms that captures the essence of Animal Collective's experimental spirit.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Honeycomb — This track embodies the EP's playful spirit with its catchy hooks and layered harmonies, showcasing the band's knack for creating immersive soundscapes.
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Gotham — With its more ambient and introspective feel, 'Gotham' highlights the band's range and willingness to explore darker sonic territories, contrasting beautifully with 'Honeycomb'.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

63 /100

Treeline

Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases strong composition and craft while maintaining a cohesive sound throughout its brief runtime.

What we noticed

Both tracks feature layered synths that create a dense, immersive soundscape, with 'Honeycomb' incorporating a more melodic structure.
The rhythms in 'Gotham' are intentionally disjointed, using syncopation to create an unsettling yet engaging atmosphere.
Each track maintains a consistent tempo but varies in texture and dynamics, allowing for moments of tension and release.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Experimental — Continues the band's evolution with a sound that departs from their earlier work.
Career context: Released in 2012, Honeycomb / Gotham represents Animal Collective's continued evolution after their critically acclaimed album Merriweather Post Pavilion. This two-track EP followed a period of experimentation, showcasing their ability to fuse art rock with electronic elements while maintaining their signature psychedelic sound.
Stylistic neighbors: Panda Bear· Tame Impala· The Microphones

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Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Honeycomb

The lyrics shift from whimsical imagery to a more reflective tone, suggesting a deeper connection between the abstract and personal.

This transition marks a pivotal moment in the song, revealing layers of meaning that invite listeners to engage more deeply with its themes.