This is the album that started it all. Before Animal Collective got their hands on a tape while on tour of the West Coast and consequently released it on their own label, Ariel Pink's music was confined to self-made tapes and heard only by a handful of local freaks and geeks. What first hits you when playing this album for the very first time is the audio; don't play around with the EQ, no need to bring your expensive stereo system in for repairs, it's supposed to sound this nasty. You either love it or hate it. I personally adore the resulting warmth and fuzzy vibe of the record. Also interesting to note is that there are no drums on the album, all percussion is created by Ariel Pink's mouth (and I have no clue what effects - they are very convincing). That being said, The Doldrums (which also includes tracks from Vital Pink, another early recording), is one addictive retro pop gem after the other. Mesmerizing!