Mastering the Slow Build
Six Weeks is a quintessential indie-folk anthem from Of Monsters and Men's debut album My Head Is an Animal. Unlike standard pop songs that rush to the chorus, this track is a test of patience and dynamics. It spans nearly six minutes, starting with a delicate, almost whispered melody and erupting into a powerful, shouting finale.
To sing this well, you need to manage your energy. If you give 100% volume in the first minute, you will have nowhere to go when the drums kick in. The vocal performance relies on a raw, natural tone rather than polished vibrato.
AI Coach Tip: Watch the Tempo
The phrasing in the verses ("Slow, slow, slow") requires being slightly behind the beat to create that relaxed indie feel. Our analysis shows users often rush these lines. Stay in the pocket.
Phase 1: The Soft Opening (0:00 - 1:45)
The song begins in B Major with Nanna's vocals sitting in a low, comfortable range. The lyrics "Slow, slow, slow / Soft, soft, soft" should be sung exactly as described—softly. Focus on breathy onset and clear diction.
The Trap: Because it is quiet, singers often lose support, causing the pitch to go flat. Keep your diaphragm engaged even at low volumes to maintain intonation on the lower notes.
Phase 2: The Crescendo (1:45 - 3:30)
As the instrumentation builds, so should your vocal intensity. You are moving from a "speaking" volume to a "calling" volume. When singing "Alone, I fight these animals," avoid flipping into falsetto. This line requires a chest-dominant mix to convey the urgency of the lyrics.
Start opening your mouth wider on the vowels (specifically "Alone" and "Fight") to increase natural resonance without straining your throat.
Phase 3: The Anthem (3:30 - End)
The final section is pure energy. The "La la la" hooks and the repeated "Alone, I fight these animals" are belted around B4/C#5. This is where stamina is key.
To survive the end of the song, use "forward placement." Imagine the sound hitting the back of your teeth. This brightens the tone and helps you cut through the heavy drums and trumpet lines without blowing out your voice.
Frequently Asked Questions
The lead vocal belts up to a C#5 during the climax. Harmonies may go higher, but the core melody sits firmly in the upper chest/mix register.
Yes, the original recording features interplay between Nanna and Ragnar. However, the melody is unified enough that it works perfectly as a solo performance, or you can choose which part to follow in the Singing Coach AI app.
The phrases are long and repetitive. Plan your "catch breaths" specifically between the lines "Alone, I fight these animals" and "Alone, I fight them." Don't wait until you are empty to inhale.
