When an artist hangs around for a while, he or she begins to run out of things to say. The passion and specificity of the initial albums runs thinner when you put an album out every other year.
Tame Impala's "On Track" reflects the dilemma. This album is very much "On Track," as he promises in one song. It feels to me like the artist set his alarm for 6 AM, diligently went to the studio every day, and produced a piece of work. I can visualize "TIME??!?!?" written on a dry erase board.
To be sure, Tame Impala certainly explored what time means to him. Past, present, future. He covered it all. It's relatable enough: enduring another year, living in the moment, unsaid conversations with those we have lost. But rather than a reflection on mortality, this theme reads like a holding pattern for the trump era and longing for Obama. Remember when we used to be hopeful? Is this really who we are? Tomorrow can't get here soon enough.
Sometimes he explores the theme with a soundscape, sometimes with reflective lyrics pining for yesteryear. On balance (as always), I wish there were more short catchy songs and less long ambient ones that feel like rejected Daft Punk hooks.
Tame Impala promises to produce dancy and well-crafted songs as long as he can. He delivers on that promise with another solid day at the office.
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