British modern music collective, Jungle, has reclaimed their spot in the limelight with the release of their sophomore album, For Ever, on Sept. 14. After a four year hiatus, the soulful group have embarked on their musical journey, this time with a different purpose in mind.
Beginning with frontmen, Josh Lloyd Watson (J) and Tom McFarland, Jungle was initially a two man group who remained anonymous by the simple nickname “J and T”. After the pair realized they wanted more density for live shows, Jungle morphed into what it is today: a 7 piece music collective that pushes the label of a specific genre.
After the group’s self titled debut album in 2014, Jungle gained recognition for their electronic sounds coordinating with creative, intriguing music videos. The album received a Mercury Prize nomination and roared with positive reviews from music critics along the way. Single, “Busy Earnin’” that appeared on the album sits with over 54 million plays on Spotify. But with these sudden accomplishments happening at once, the group found themselves asking “what’s next?”
In an interview with Noisey, Watson and McFarland sat down to talk about the fears, purpose, and motivation they experienced while making For Ever. While listening to the transition from Jungle to For Ever, there is an obvious shift in the increase of emotional vulnerability portrayed in the newest album. Coming out of recent break ups and enlightening life lessons found in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, Jungle shares personal anecdotes in songs such as “House in LA”.
This year has proven to be a time of change and new experiences for Jungle. While the swagger and funk has remained a distinction of the group’s sound since 2014, the maturity in writing is evident in their newest album.
While on their current world tour, Jungle will be making a pit stop in Austin, Texas to play at Austin City Limits Festival and Emo’s concert venue. Stop by either sets to watch the 7 piece group perform their new, fresh tracks.
