Glass Animals, the British indie rock band, have risen to prominence with their distinctive sound, intriguing lyrics, and captivating live performances over the last decade. We recently had the pleasure of photographing Glass Animals at the Michigan Lottery Amphitheater. Let’s take a deep dive into the band’s history, exploring their evolution as musicians and the magic they bring to the stage during live performances.

Glass Animals was formed in Oxford, England, in 2010, by childhood friends Dave Bayley, Drew MacFarlane, Joe Seaward, and Edmund Irwin-Singer. Their musical journey began in a small recording studio, where they experimented with unique sounds, incorporating elements of indie rock, pop, and electronic music. This creative fusion would become their signature style. Although Glass Animals have been making melodic tunes for over a decade, their monumental success is fairly recent.

In 2014, Glass Animals released their debut album, “Zaba.” This album was a game-changer, introducing the world to their psychedelic and dreamy soundscapes. Songs like “Gooey” and “Black Mambo” showcased their ability to craft hypnotic melodies that transported listeners to otherworldly realms. “Zaba” received critical acclaim and laid the foundation for their future success.

Glass Animals are not just known for their studio work; they are renowned for their mesmerizing live performances. When you attend a Glass Animals concert, you enter a world of sensory delight. Dave Bayley’s hauntingly soulful vocals, combined with the band’s hypnotic beats and intricate light shows, create an immersive experience that transcends the ordinary.

Their use of stage design, props, and interactive elements adds an extra layer of intrigue. In performances of songs like “Pork Soda” or “Life Itself,” giant pineapples and mystical creatures often make appearances, enhancing the sense of immersion and wonder. Following their Dreamland theme, the use of minimal stage design and perfectly placed elements (such as the diving board above) created a totally encapsulating live show where the music was the star and the stage elements took a back seat.

Glass Animals continued to evolve with their second album, “How to Be a Human Being,” and the single “Life Itself” became an instant hit. However, it was their 2020 release, “Dreamland,” that catapulted them to global stardom. The album’s lead single, “Heat Waves,” became a chart-topping sensation with over 2.6 billion streams on Spotify and 610 million views on Youtube, showcasing their ability to blend melancholy and infectious hooks in a way that can shake the nation. Due to this album, Glass Animals was awarded Top Rock Artist at the 2022 Billboard Music Awards. I remember watching the video during quarantine – it has stuck with me ever since as one of my favorites.

As Glass Animals continues to push the boundaries of their music, fans eagerly await their next project. Their ability to create a vivid world of sound and visuals, both in the studio and on stage, promises an exciting musical journey ahead.

Glass Animals have not only crafted a unique and mesmerizing sound but have elevated the live music experience to new heights. Their history is one of experimentation, growth, and a commitment to pushing artistic boundaries. Whether you’re listening to their albums in the comfort of your home or experiencing the magic of their live performances, Glass Animals’ music is a journey through time and space that leaves an indelible mark on the soul, and music industry.