Merriweather Post Pavilion

A leftfield marriage of summery Beach Boys vibes, churning electronic music, and psychedelic noise, Animal Collective's trippy eighth album stretched the boundaries of what could be considered pop. "My Girls" is a maelstrom of synths, beats, and layered chanting, but it's catchier than a cold. Tracks like "Guys Eyes" feature traffic jams of tribal drumming, yet give way to gorgeous vocal lines. Endlessly complex, with knotty arrangements that bloom like marigolds, this record offers an initially tough but extra-rewarding listen.