Animal Sun - Just For the Night #Flyah Review


Formed in 2015 and lead by two brothers; vocalist and Principle Songwriter Steven Blake Alton and Drummer/Vocalist William Alton, Animal Sun has managed to grow a following throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia in those two short years. Deciding to name the project Animal Sun was designed in dedication to the Alton's late childhood friend and musical compadre James Sun, who's life was tragically cut short in 2011. Drawing strength from devastation, Animal Sun gathered purpose while meeting Lead Guitarist Jonathan Harris, Bassist Cazzie Olko, and Keyboardist/Guitarist Neil Ackroyd, to produce the spiritual alchemy that is embodied in their music. It wasn't long before the band gained steam as they performed packed parties and house shows and colleges. By 2016, the band had found their identity and wen't on to begin recording their first studio EP with Virginia Beach legend and resident Rob Ulsh. The Engineer/Producer has been responsible for works from major label recording artists; Pharrell Williams, Pusha T, Justin Timberlake, and Missy Elliot. The self titled "Animal Sun" EP was released in November and is a testament to where they are at with their sound right now. 

With the release of their self titled EP, Animal Sun takes on a some classic genres, and gives them a fresh, youthful spin all their own. Lush with addicting progressions, an around edgy but soulful vocal style, and persistent pop undertones, the record boasts the aesthetic of pop rock anthems. Although songs are diverse from one another, there is a glue holds them all together much like a concept album would.

The first single, “Just for The Night", immediately grabs you with it's infectious pop sensibilities, followed by intimate and passionate vocals, guitar hooks, and an almost punk rock attitude. The song seems to build and breathe as it plays on.

"I wanted something that not only captured, but almost created a satire out of what many young people experience during a night out. It's theme is about coming of age, and loving without anything in a return.", explains songwriter Steven Blake of the band's single.

Although the single speaks volumes for the EP, to get a real understanding of where Animal Sun is coming from, it should be heard in its entirety.

"The themes of the EP revolve heavily around coming of age, love, loss, and an overall maturing period that takes place for many around the age of 18-22. In a lot of ways this EP is a reflection of not only my life, but experiences we as a band have all gone through together; the good, the bad, and the ugly. To put things simply, I feel each one of our songs acts almost as a sponge soaking up the experiences and influences that not only I experience as the primary songwriter, but those surrounding the band as well.", says Blake of the songwriting for the album.

Formed in 2015 and lead by two brothers; vocalist and Principle Songwriter Steven Blake Alton and Drummer/Vocalist William Alton, Animal Sun has managed to grow a following throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia in those two short years. Deciding to name the project Animal Sun was designed in dedication to the Alton's late childhood friend and musical compadre James Sun, who's life was tragically cut short in 2011. Drawing strength from devastation, Animal Sun gathered purpose while meeting Lead Guitarist Jonathan Harris, Bassist Cazzie Olko, and Keyboardist/Guitarist Neil Ackroyd, to produce the spiritual alchemy that is embodied in their music. It wasn't long before the band gained steam as they performed packed parties and house shows and colleges. By 2016, the band had found their identity and wen't on to begin recording their first studio EP with Virginia Beach legend and resident Rob Ulsh. The Engineer/Producer has been responsible for works from major label recording artists; Pharrell Williams, Pusha T, Justin Timberlake, and Missy Elliot. The self titled "Animal Sun" EP was released in November and is a testament to where they are at with their sound right now.

Having opened for national touring acts like The Frights (Dangerbird Records), and The Alverez Kings (Warner Bros), the band is certainly not new to spreading the music through live performance. The boys have also been Featured on EGH Radio UK, Radio Buzz 101 Real alternative, WNRN Virginia, National Banks Radio Australia, PRN France, WTJU, The Corner, Heat on the Street Online Blog, and popular Spotify Playlists like The Ultimate Indie Collection.

"Animal Sun" is available now for streaming and downloads on most major digital outlets and the band is ramping up for their performance at the Millennium Music Conference this February along with a tour to follow.

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