Tame Impala Announces New Album, Deadbeat, Exploring Personal Struggles and Australian Rave Culture
Tame Impala is set to release deadbeat on October 17th, marking Kevin Parker’s first full-length album since the critically acclaimed The Slow Rush in 2020. This new project promises a sonic and thematic shift, delving into both the vibrant energy of Western Australia’s rave scene and Parker’s own internal battles.
Deadbeat isn’t just a collection of songs; it’s a reflection of self-sabotage and the frustrating patterns we fall into. parker describes these tendencies as a “negative feedback loop,” examining the details of habits he’s trying to break. The album artwork itself offers a personal glimpse, featuring a photograph of Parker with his daughter, peach.
A Sonic Evolution Inspired by Australia’s Underground
You’ll notice a distinct electronic influence throughout Deadbeat. Parker draws heavily from the “bush doof culture” of Western australia – outdoor dance parties fueled by electronic music in remote, natural settings. This inspiration is evident in the album’s sound, which embraces a more electronic palette while retaining Tame Impala’s signature psychedelic touch.
The first preview of Deadbeat arrived in July with “End of Summer,” a seven-minute track. It seamlessly blends acid house, psychedelic pop, and the spirit of Australia’s free party movement from the 80s and 90s. Following that, “Loser” was unveiled in september, showcasing a more self-deprecating lyrical style that aligns with the album’s overall themes. The music video for “Loser” features actor and musician Joe Keery.
How to Pre-Order Deadbeat
Deadbeat will be available on all major digital streaming platforms. For vinyl enthusiasts, several exclusive options are available:
Two web store-exclusive vinyl variants through the band’s official shop.
An exclusive color vinyl release at Urban Outfitters.
Another exclusive color vinyl available at indie Record Stores.
A limited run of numbered cassettes,exclusively sold through brooklyn Vegan and Alternative Press.
Pre-orders are currently open,so you can secure your copy now.
Beyond Tame Impala: A Period of Creative Flourishing
Kevin Parker has been far from idle since The Slow Rush. He’s been a sought-after producer, contributing to music for Dua Lipa and the Barbie soundtrack. Furthermore, he collaborated with Thundercat and Justice, the latter earning him his first Grammy Award.
Parker’s inventive spirit also led to the creation of “The Orchid,” a completely new instrument he designed himself. This demonstrates his continued dedication to pushing the boundaries of music and sound.
If you’re looking to revisit a cornerstone of Tame Impala’s discography, check out our previous review of The Slow Rush. Deadbeat promises to be another compelling chapter in the ongoing evolution of one of modern music’s most innovative artists.