The Art of Vulnerability
"Human" is a standout track from Of Monsters and Men's 2015 album Beneath the Skin. Unlike their high-energy hits like "Little Talks," this song demands a more raw, atmospheric approach. It explores themes of anxiety and the feeling of being trapped ("Cage me like an animal"), requiring a vocalist who can convey vulnerability without losing control.
To sing this well, you need to master the dynamic shift from the introspective, almost mumbled verses to the powerful, open-throated choruses. It is less about vocal acrobatics and more about texture and tone.
AI Coach Tip: Watch Your Breath
The chorus features a distinct "breath" sound (a sharp exhale). Our analysis shows users often skip this or make it too quiet. Treat the breath as a musical note—it needs to be rhythmic and audible to capture the song's character.
Phase 1: The Verses (0:00 - 0:52)
The song starts in a lower register. Nanna's vocal delivery here is conversational and close to the microphone. The challenge is maintaining pitch accuracy while singing softly.
The Trap: When singing quietly, many singers lose support, causing the pitch to go flat. Keep your core engaged even when the volume is low. Imagine you are sharing a secret—intimate, but clear.
Phase 2: The Chorus (0:52 - 1:20)
Here, the song opens up. The line "Breathe in, breathe out" serves as both a lyric and an instruction. The melody lifts, and you should switch to a brighter tone.
- Rhythmic Breathing: The "Hah!" exhale sound is integral. Don't be afraid to make this percussive.
- Vowel Shapes: Open your mouth wider on "Human" and "Animal" to create a fuller, more resonant sound that matches the swelling instrumentation.
Phase 3: The Bridge & Climax (2:40 - 3:15)
The intensity peaks here. The repetition of "I am a human" requires a build in volume. This is where you can use a strong chest mix to belt the D5 (for female keys) or F#4 (for male keys).
Focus on emotional release. It shouldn't sound too polished; a little bit of "grit" or vocal fry at the onset of the notes can add to the emotional weight of the lyrics.
Frequently Asked Questions
For the main melody sung by Nanna, the highest belted note is around a D5 during the climax. The male harmony stays lower, topping out around F#4.
Absolutely. While the original relies on the interplay between Nanna and Ragnar, the melody stands strong on its own. Focus on the main lyrical line.
Avoid excessive vibrato. Keep the tone straight and slightly breathy in the verses, then add power in the chorus without switching to a full operatic head voice.
