Purrcussion: Tame Impala explores alternative sound

Tame Impala Current CMYK
Tame Impala’s Currents, released July 17, paves a bold new direction for this psychedelic pop/rock group.
“Different” is Currents’ keyword. Its near absence of guitars is most notable. Currents transitions into a synth-driven sound that’s laced with electronics, but still feels organic and true to the band.
Much like the band itself, Tame Impala’s primary member and producer, Kevin Parker, seems to be experiencing changes. The lyrics reflect this with lines such as, “another version of myself I think I found, at last.” This album’s main theme is accepting change sonically and lyrically.
Parker’s production shines at its best. The instrumentation sounds clean, the vocals are light and airy. Everything about it feels fresh and vibrant, boasting a light, dreamy sound.
Currents proves to be tight and cohesive, a listening experience that flows well. Every song fits in with the laid-back vibes this record gives out. Solid interlude tracks tie this LP together.
There’s not much to complain about on this album, but there is a little. The vocals could use some variety as Parker’s voice hasn’t changed much since the band’s 2010 debut album.
With fantastic songs like “The Less I Know The Better,” and “Let it Happen,” Currents proves to be a worthy addition to Tame Impala’s discography. For this, Currents earns four stars.