Wild Animals
Trampled by Turtles · 2014
40 min · 11 tracks · bluegrass music
A vibrant blend of bluegrass and indie folk, infused with introspective lyrics and rich harmonies that evoke a sense of longing.
Top tracks — play these first
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Wild Animals — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of freedom and introspection, featuring soaring melodies and intricate instrumental work that set the tone for the entire record.
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Hollow — This track stands out with its hauntingly beautiful arrangement and poignant lyrics that explore feelings of loss and emptiness, resonating deeply with listeners.
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Come Back Home — With its catchy chorus and upbeat tempo, this song contrasts the album's more somber moments while still addressing themes of yearning and connection.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases strong songwriting and craftsmanship, though it follows familiar bluegrass structures.
What we noticed
- The first three tracks maintain a steady tempo and build energy, while the fourth track introduces a slower pace with a more reflective tone.
- Several songs feature intricate instrumental arrangements, including layered banjo and mandolin lines that create a rich texture.
- The album closes with two tracks that gradually decrease in tempo, allowing for a contemplative finish.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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7/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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
- wistful melodies for reflection
- intimate moments of connection
- thoughtful lyrics for pondering
- vibrant energy for gatherings
- short tracks for quick listens
Maybe skip if you
- prefer high-energy soundscapes
- seek instant gratification tracks
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released on July 15, 2014, 'Wild Animals' is Trampled by Turtles' sixth studio album, following their critically acclaimed record 'Stars and Satellites' from 2012. This album represents a maturation in their sound, showcasing deeper lyrical themes while maintaining their signature energetic instrumentation.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Punch Brothers· Nickel Creek· The Avett Brothers
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Wild Animals 5:53
- 2 Hollow 3:25
- 3 Repetition 3:07
- 4 Are You Behind the Shining Star? 3:02
- 5 Silver Light 4:24
- 6 Come Back Home 2:38
- 7 Ghosts 3:50
- 8 Lucy 3:43
- 9 Western World 2:38
- 10 Nobody Knows 2:58
- 11 Winners 5:13
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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