The Indie Folk Anthem
"Dirty Paws" launched Of Monsters and Men to global fame. Featured on their debut album My Head Is an Animal, the song is a masterclass in indie-folk storytelling. Unlike high-belting pop songs, the challenge here lies in the "unison" vocal style—where Nanna Bryndís Hilmarsdóttir and Ragnar Þórhallsson often sing the same melody an octave apart.
To sing this well, you need a relaxed, conversational tone. You aren't performing an opera; you are telling a fable about beasts and birds. Let's break down the technique.
AI Coach Tip: Watch Your Diction
In folk music, clear storytelling is paramount. Do not over-enunciate like a musical theater performer, but ensure the words "four dirty paws" are crisp. Avoid heavy vibrato; aim for a 'straight tone'.
Phase 1: The Verses (Storytelling)
The song begins with "Jumping up and down the floor." This sits in a comfortable mid-range (F#3 - F#4 for the melody). The delivery should be punchy and rhythmic.
The Trap: It is easy to drag the tempo. The acoustic guitar drives the song forward, so your vocals must sit right on top of the beat. Do not "scoop" up to notes; hit them cleanly.
Phase 2: The "La La La" Chorus
The hook of the song is wordless: "La la la, la la la la la." This is deceptively difficult. Without words to shape your mouth, pitch accuracy often drops.
- Vowel Shape: Keep the "La" open. Drop your jaw slightly. If you smile too wide, the sound becomes thin and nasal.
- Breath: This section is repetitive. Use the pauses between phrases to take quick, silent breaths so you don't run out of air before the next verse.
Phase 3: The Bridge Build-up
As the song progresses, the instrumentation swells. You will need to increase your volume (dynamics) to match the energy of the drums. However, do not switch to a shouty chest voice. Maintain that folk-mix resonance.
For the higher notes in the bridge (hitting around C#5), focus on forward placement—feeling the vibration in the mask of your face—to project over the band without straining.
Frequently Asked Questions
The main vocal melody peaks around C#5, though harmonies can go higher. It is a very accessible range for Altos, Tenors, and Baritones.
Absolutely. While the original is a duet/unison performance, it works perfectly as a solo piece. Singing Coach AI tracks your pitch against the main melody line.
Reduce your vibrato. Indie folk vocals are characterized by a straighter, airier tone compared to R&B or Pop. Relax your throat and focus on the rhythm of the words.
