Synth-pop darlings MGMT shed their layered soundscapes for a stripped-down, introspective journey on their fifth album, "Loss of Life." Remember the electrifying, omnipresent anthems of their 2007 debut, "Oracular Spectacular"? The band that seemed destined for mainstream domination has embarked on a fascinating sonic odyssey, defying expectations once again.
Gone are the swirling psychedelia and densely packed arrangements. "Loss of Life" embraces a folksier aesthetic, weaving melancholic melodies with a surprising amount of acoustic space. Think strummed guitars, sun-kissed melodies, and a stark contrast to their former sonic cauldron.
This transformation isn't without its familiar touch. Collaborators Patrick Wimberly and Dave Fridmann join the fold, while Andrew VanWyngarden's undeniable melodic instincts remain intact. Tracks like "Mother Nature" and "Dancing in Babylon" (featuring Christine and the Queens' vocalist Héloïse Letissier) are instant earworms, reminiscent of Stevie Nicks and classic folk-pop gems.
Yet, vulnerability reigns. "People in the Streets" reveals VanWyngarden's grappling with alienation and the desire for connection amidst the absurdity of life. "I'd go and join them but I'm so scared / Of the people in the streets," he sings, capturing the complex push-and-pull of human interaction.
The album isn't all sunshine and folk-pop charm. "Bubblegum Dog" throws in a dash of Beck-like surrealism, while "Nothing to Declare" showcases their wit with lines like "The world's my fin de claire." But even amidst the playful wordplay, introspective lyricism shines through.
VanWyngarden wears his musical history on his sleeve. "Nothing Changes," a proggy ballad featuring a delightful horn solo, alludes to their iconic debut hit "Time to Pretend." "I Wish I Was Joking" references Steve Miller's "The Joker," further demonstrating their self-awareness and evolution.
The album's closer, "Loss of Life," is a poignant meditation on mortality and the human search for connection. It features a stunning synth interlude that leaves you wanting more, echoing the album's overall message: beauty lies in simplicity, yet the mysteries of life remain endlessly captivating.
