The Ooz recently had its five year anniversary, so now is a perfect time to revisit the genre-transcending, defining work of Archy Marshall, better known as King Krule.
The album has a distinct sound, with clear influences of trip-hop and punk-rock, culminating in an utterly unique sound and allowing a bridge between decades of music. It is a timeless, fresh record, able to be enjoyed by many.
Marshall’s distinct vocals and whimsical seventh chords contrasted with his use of crunchy bass lines creates a beautiful atmosphere of loneliness which engulfs you into an odd sense of comfort. The music feels synesthetic to the title, with it literally sounding like an ‘Ooz’. The aim was to take “social realism and make it social surrealism.” This is exemplified by his use of the theme tune from ‘It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia’, a show he notably watched during a depressive episode; a comical, happy theme tune, further illustrating the album’s intersection between warmth and emptiness. There are clear odes to South London, making it a piece that feels close to home for those listening from the cobbled streets below the river.
If you haven't yet, give this album a listen. Five years on from its release it still remains one of the greatest works to date.
Cover image drawn by Miel.
Comments