In a competitive landscape of incredible music, Dancing Astronaut proudly announces its 2024 Album of the Year: Tinlicker’s Cold Enough For Snow. Released on February 16 via [PIAS] Électronique, this album exemplifies the high-quality production that Micah Heyboer and Jordi van Achthoven are renowned for. The LP’s exquisite melodies, diverse styles, and an international tour focusing on “performing as a musician, not as a DJ” contributed to its deserved recognition. Tinlicker’s courageous choice to embrace their creative evolution, resulting in a project that genuinely showcases their artistry, was pivotal in securing this honor. “It has our soul, our DNA in it,” Heyboer remarked to Dancing Astronaut earlier this year.
For over a decade, Tinlicker has consistently redefined the house and techno genres, establishing a distinctive sound characterized by the use of live instruments, from strings to horns. This approach sets them apart from more conventional electronic acts. Their music evokes a spectrum of emotions, ranging from joy to melancholy, creating dance tracks that are also rich in storytelling.
Prior to the album’s launch, Tinlicker underwent significant changes, departing from their longstanding label Anjunabeats to join [PIAS] Électronique and shifting their performance style to include live elements. These bold transitions were not only strategic but essential for the duo, who embraced this new direction to realize their creative vision. The result is an outstanding album that marries innovation with excellence.
What truly distinguishes Cold Enough For Snow is its rich sonic diversity. The album traverses various genres, from melodic tracks like “Slipstream” and “Staring Down Sunset” to indie-electronic vibes in “This Life” and “Nothing To Lose,” culminating in club-focused, techno-influenced pieces like “Blowfish” and “Revolution.” It even features a track, “Strawberry,” that deviates from their usual four-on-the-floor structure, created in collaboration with the Metropole Orkest, a renowned Dutch jazz and pop orchestra.
The vocalists featured on the album not only enhance Tinlicker’s production but also infuse it with new energy. Longtime collaborator Nathan Nicholson appears on three tracks, while notable singer-songwriters such as Tom Smith, Brian Molko, and British band Circa Waves bring a refreshing indie-rock element. Julia Church shines on two standout tracks, “Glasshouse” and “Slipstream.” Despite the album’s diverse styles, Cold Enough For Snow maintains a cohesive listening experience from start to finish.
In the months following the LP’s release, Tinlicker embarked on a headline tour across Europe and North America, including a performance at CRSSD in San Diego. Their live show successfully showcased the album, validating their decision to embrace this format and breathing new life into the tracks. They ended the year by releasing a remix album featuring highlights such as an UNKLE remix of “Glasshouse” and a club mix of “Slipstream.”
Above all, Cold Enough For Snow exemplifies unparalleled creativity and serves as a testament to Tinlicker’s unwavering commitment to pushing artistic boundaries and pursuing their passions, rather than conforming to trends.
“We don’t like living safe,” Heyboer stated. When it comes to creating music, “there’s only one rule: we have to like it.”
With Cold Enough For Snow, there is much to appreciate.
Featured images: Jen Roman
Categories: Music
