Sung Tongs

Released in 2004, Sung Tongs marks the definitive breakthrough for Animal Collective and a cornerstone of the freak folk movement. Diverging from the dense, abrasive textures of 'Here Comes the Indian', this record is a duo effort between Avey Tare and Panda Bear. It was recorded on a Tascam 48 half-inch 8-track, contributing to its signature analog warmth and lo-fi grit. The album is notable for its complete lack of electric guitars, relying instead on acoustic strumming patterns that function as rhythm sections. Critics at Pitchfork and Tiny Mix Tapes lauded the album for its innovative vocal arrangements, specifically the use of hocketing and tribal-style chanting. It occupies a unique space in the band's catalog as their most 'organic' sounding work, bridging the gap between their early avant-garde experiments and the more structured psychedelic pop of 'Strawberry Jam' and 'Merriweather Post Pavilion'.