Tame impala; back again
With a unique and classic tune to his music, Kevin Parker, formally known as “Tame Impala” rocks this October with his long-awaited release of the album “Deadbeat.” It blends genres of nostalgic sounds, to past soundtracks while also including reflective lyrics that listeners can relate to. Released October 17th, the album covers the feeling of drifting through life while also trying to find what meaning there is to a world that feels almost like it moves too fast. This album marks a new chapter for Parker, where he slows down to explore a quieter and more emotional side to his music.
Between each of the twelve tracks on the album lie dreamy layers with echoing vocals and slow-burn grooves that pull you in. Each track feels like a thump of a heartbeat- steady but emotional. Parker combines electronic beats with soft guitar tones that drift between nostalgia and hope. Songs fade into each other like memories blending together, giving the album a flowing feel.
It was one of the chillest albums I’ve ever heard,” says Kyo Perez (9th grade). “Almost like something you’d want to listen to on a car ride home for the want and feel of escaping reality.”
Parker’s lyrics dig into what it means to feel like you’re standing still even when life continues to move on. In songs like “Loser” and “End of Summer,” he opens up about the pressure to keep going and the comfort in admitting you’re lost sometimes. “I really feel it was more about being ‘deadbeat’ doesn't mean giving up, but more being real,” said Paloma Vallejo (11th grade). “It’s very motivational and inspiring to me.” The good thing about this album is that it's powerful and is honest about not always being okay, and that makes it easy to connect with. The lyrics remind you that everyone has moments, where they feel stuck, and that’s part of being human. It turns self-doubt into something almost peaceful, proving that honesty can be its own kind of strength.
Even fan pages have noticed Parker’s emotional shift through his music. A popular fan account @causeimafan wrote that Deadbeat “...feels like Kevin’s most human album yet- not about perfection, but acceptance.” Fans online describe the album as comforting and emotional, the kind of record that you listen to late at night while your thoughts run through your mind. It's music that feels personal, like it was written for the listener rather than the charts. Many have also said it captures the feeling of growing up, still figuring things out, but doing it with rhythm and flow.
With Deadbeat, Tame Impala has transformed the feeling of self-doubt into art, showing that even the slowest moments can spark creativity. Personally, I think this album feels like a reminder to society that its okay to slow down; the fact that imperfection can still sound beautiful. It's chill, deep, and is real; the kind of music that stays with you longer even after it ends.