After a long break from making
Tame Impala
music, during which time
Kevin Parker
produced other people's albums and played in side projects, 2015's
Currents
shows that much has changed with the project. Like before,
Parker
recorded the album on his own, only this time without
Dave Fridmann
's guiding hand and by mostly forsaking electric guitars in favor of a wealth of synthesizers, and this time out there's a much more relaxed, intimate approach. In addition to the soft rock of the '70s feel that permeates the sound,
adds elements of R&B and hip-hop to the mix, gets lyrically introspective in spots, and generally sounds like he's either on the verge of a long nap or just waking up from one. These aren't bad things when done right, and
's prowess as a producer and musician makes
sound good. At the band's best, they blend huge guitar sounds, melodic basslines, and vintage synths into sweeping psychedelic rock with energy and drive that feels hugely cinematic while still feeling real. There are moments when
reaches back for that sound, like on the tracks "Let It Happen" and "Reality in Motion," but mostly the album is stripped down and driven by synths and
's newfound love of vintage modern R&B sounds. ~ Tim Sendra