First, it would be best if you put this album on repeat.
Then prepare yourself for very glossy, psychedelic pop. This duo, Andrew VanWyngarden and Ben Goldwasser put together 2018’s “Little Dark Age” which was one of my favorite albums of the year. This, I really think, surpasses it. It is so, just so… groovy.
You do have to take your time… it’s a grower.
“Loss of Life” opens with an intriguing mix of sounds, including vinyl scratches and a distorted organ, setting a tone that blends nostalgia with innovation. The album’s structure is bookended by two parts of the title track, creating a conceptual feel that ties the project together. The first part, Loss of Life (Part 2), immediately captivates with its layered and immersive soundscape, while Loss of Life closes the album on a reflective note. I like to start listening to the album with Loss of Life, maybe strangely.
Standout tracks include Mother Nature, which features minimal acoustic guitar and layered vocals, creating a hauntingly beautiful experience.
Mother Nature, along with Bubblegum Dog and Dancing in Babylon (which includes a guest appearance by Christine and the Queens), highlights the band’s ability to craft catchy yet profound music. The latter… I adore. It first marks the band’s first duet, bringing a dancey 80’s vibe to the mix. It showcases a blend of sophisti-pop and ’80s-inspired melodies, maintaining MGMT’s signature dreamy and psychedelic soundscapes.
Bubblegum Dog is great for its nineties alt-rock vibe, complete with nostalgic references and hypnotic melody (as in… you cannot get it out of your head once you hear it!) The song’s structure is engaging, starting with a gentle, almost deceptive acoustic vibe before transitioning into a punchier indie rock style. This shift is marked by fuzzy bass lines, punchy drums, and dissonant piano lines that should keep listeners intrigued. The use of crushed and distorted synths and a harpsichord near the end adds a layer of complexity to the instrumentation.
I think Nothing to Declare showcases the band’s continued evolution while maintaining their signature psychedelic and indie folk sound. The track begins with a folksy vibe and transitions into a more psychedelic atmosphere, featuring compelling lyrics and a standout drum groove that complements the rhythm guitar. The lyrics, delivered by VanWyngarden, are pretty introspective and emotionally resonant, with memorable lines such as “If you let me go. I’ll fall as far as I can fall. Starlight ain’t never gonna bring me home.”
As the final track, The Loss of Life, states:
“When thе world is born and life is ending
Then you lеarn to love your loss of life
When the morning comes and life is over
Anyone can love…”
It’s so lovely and perplexing at the same time.
“Loss of Life” by MGMT is a reflective and mature album that balances their signature psychedelic style with deeper lyrical themes and a more refined production approach. It may not have the immediate appeal of some of their earlier work, but it offers a rich and rewarding listening experience for those willing to engage with its introspective content.
I so highly recommend it – if you give it a bit of psychedelic time.
8.5/10
Chris Garrod, July 17th, 2024
P.S. How often have I used the word “psychedelic” in this review?!