I REALLY like the new album by Tame Impala – it's called Currents and is his best release to date. I say 'his' because Tame Impala is the project name for the work of a guy called Kevin Parker (a slightly less exotic name) and he has been creating experimental and exciting records for years now.
Currents is Tame Impala album number three and it sounds as if this time round Kevin has hit the target right in the middle. I always really admire artists and bands who actually improve with time and hone their craft along the way. Tame Impala's Currents sounds like the experience of making records has schooled the artistic process and his creative confidence is now sky high.
The record constantly soars with a heady mixture of glorious strings, hypnotic grooves and spine-tingling melodies with a psychedelic flavour remaining prominent throughout. The combination of synthesisers, guitars, samples and beautifully layered vocals set this album apart from so much of the 'current' chart crop.
Tracks such as Let It Happen,Eventually, Reality In Motion (which is very New Order meets Pet Shop Boys) and the perfect pop song The Moment are a fantastic four reasons to lovingly insert this record into your download library.
GENERATION NEXT
BELSONIC-bound Rudimental have their new album, We The Generation, waiting in the wings – it drops on September 18 and is full of their trademark catchy pop dance tracks.
This band have surprised a few people along the way – those who thought they were a lightweight drum-and-bass act might have to further rethink when they hear the sheer musicality and song writing talent that are so apparent on the new record.
The current single Never Gonna Let You Go, which features our own Foy Vance, is the perfect snapshot of the album. A striking chorus, a pulsating rhythm and excellent use of brass all combine to create that satisfying Rudimental sound. Check the new songs live at Custom House Square in August
SMILEY MILEY
MILEY Cyrus is thrilled at being lined up to present the MTV VMAs this year. The star tweeted very 'colourfully' about her joy at landing the gig and promised to make it a night to remember.
She has already done that of course on a previous occasion – Miley's last showing at the VMAs was the night when she performed her notorious 'twerk' on Robin Thicke. Remember ? She was wearing pretty much nothing and he was dressed as Beetlejuice ?
The MTV VMAs are live from Los Angeles on August 30.
