Tame Impala- The Slow Rush | Album Review

Tame Impala are one of the biggest artists in the world. From ‘The Less I Know the Better’ to ‘Let It Happen’, the psychedelic-rock tracks from their last album ‘Currents’ have become anthems of the last decade, and seems to have defined our generation in a way not many artists can. Whether you’re into RnB, rock, indie- the genre doesn’t matter. Everyone loves Tame Impala’s sound. It seems to follow up such an iconic era would be an impossible task. But, the artist, better known as instrumentalist Kevin Parker has matched the uniqueness, and endearing quality of his last album with his latest release ‘The Slow Rush’, and with it, has offered something that could be even better.

The Slow Rush

The album begins with ‘The Last Year’, a track that from the first listen, captures all the qualities of the artists distinct sound. However, within it the artist seems to embrace more of a pop-anthem feel than ever before. The bombardment of synths common in Parkers work remain present, but feel more upbeat and light than the heaviness of his other work. Mixed with the regular throbbing beats, and the sugary-pop chant of ‘One More Year’, the track feels refreshingly familiar, and seems to mix the best of what we saw from Parker in his last release, with new pop-based features to create a track that’s as catchy as it is musically coherent. From there, Parker takes us on a journey of psychedelic wonder. Each track feels distinctive, yet flow and work into each other with ease, leaving the listener with an album that feels more like an experience than individual tracks. It’s a fine line to balance on, but one Parker walks with grace.

However, as the we delve further into the album, it seems more than ever that Parker is adding a personal touch to his works. In his last release, it seemed that much of the universality of his tracks came from the separation of the artist from his works, remaining ever-elusive through his lyrics, and thus relatable to anyone who came across it. But on this album, it’s Parkers insertion of himself into the tracks is what make them as endearing as ever, as his audience is subjected to a side of the artist never-before seen. Tracks like ‘Posthuman Forgiveness’, that grapples with Parkers feelings towards his recently passed father, and ‘On Track’ that gives an insight into the artists mental state, are made even more captivating by the insight are given into the instrumentalists life. Parker is able to master the uniqueness of his lyrics, with a new sense of emotional clarity, that serves as a welcomed addition to the already impressive tracks.

Admittedly, the last few tracks of the album are the weakest of all. The rather repetitive backing of ‘Glimmer’ seems more fitted as a club mix than a worthy addition to the album, and the simplistic sound of ‘One More Hour’ comes across as lacking rather than minimalistic.

However, despite this, the listener will still leave the album wanting more of the artists infectious sound. The album stands as a true testament to the ability of the artist, as throughout, Parker has taken gold and turned it into diamond. Adding refreshing, effective additions to his already beloved sound, ‘The Slow Rush’ is an album like no other, and it seems that yet again, Parker is set define another decade with his unforgettable music.

You can listen to Tame Impala’s new album ‘The Slow Rush’ here.