MGMT - Loss Of Life Review
While Loss Of Life showcases moments of brilliance, its inconsistency and lukewarm conclusion detract from its overall impact.
Six years have elapsed since the release of MGMT's acclaimed album Little Dark Age a record that marked either a resurgence to their former glory or simply a return to catchy pop hooks, depending on one's perspective. Now, with their latest offering, Loss Of Life the band bids farewell to the dark, gothic synth-pop undertones of its predecessor, embracing instead a pastiche approach that traverses a myriad of outdated styles, albeit failing to capture the same zeitgeist cultural resonance achieved by Little Dark Age. Despite its somewhat basic demeanour, Loss Of Life is akin to a modestly adorned canvas, where amidst its unassuming surface lie scattered gems that sparkle and illuminate.
The album commences with the instrumental ‘Loss Of Life, Pt. 2’ a melodic journey ensconced in sci-fi ambiance, where distorted and pitch-shifted vocals evoke a sense of embarking on an otherworldly odyssey akin to Neil Armstrong venturing into the cosmos, albeit with a twist of fantasy, hinting at the exploratory nature of what's to come.
The lead single, ‘Mother Nature’ emerges as a poignant highlight, its irresistibly catchy melody intertwined with saccharine undertones, captivating listeners with its sheer beauty. Delving into evocative lyricism, the song's narrator grapples with the quest for recognition and connection amidst life's tumultuous trials and transformations, weaving metaphors of unwrapping tourniquets around the sun and navigating through societal pressures with poignant introspection.
"Dancing In Babylon'‘ featuring Christine and the Queen, while slightly out of place in the album's thematic arc, exudes an energy reminiscent of 80s aesthetics, enriched by Christine's powerful vocals. The song's urban narrative explores fleeting connections amid bustling streets, pondering the authenticity of human interactions amidst a chaotic world. The song has this energy that would probably perfectly fit the ending of a John Hughes movie.
‘People In The Streets’ stands out as a personal favourite, channeling echoes of 80s Kate Bush with its grandiose synth bass and heartfelt lyricism. MGMT's emotive sincerity shines through, inviting listeners to sing along amidst swirling synths that dissipate into the ether.
‘Bubblegum Dog’ injects a burst of liveliness into the album with its dynamic production and captivating guitar solos, albeit leaving a lingering yearning for more of MGMT's exploration into these sounds.
‘Nothing To Declare’ unveils a moment of acoustic serenity, its tender vocal melody and interplay between acoustic and electric guitars evoking a sense of warmth and introspection.
However, the album takes a somber turn with ‘Nothing Changes’ where emotional depth gives way to a somewhat whiny energy, culminating in a pastiche of French Horns reminiscent of worst kind of Beatles compositions.
While Loss Of Life boasts several compelling moments, its overall trajectory falters in its latter half. There's a discernible dip in energy and cohesion, leaving listeners craving for an additional injection of vitality akin to the electrifying presence of ‘Bubblegum Dog’. The absence of such a track to balance out the album's more contemplative ballads is palpable, resulting in a sense of imbalance and unfulfilled potential.
As the album draws to a close with the titular track, ‘Loss Of Life’ one can't help but question its placement and impact. This poignant reflection on mortality and the passage of time may have served as a more potent opener, setting a thematic tone for the journey ahead. Moreover, the inclusion of the instrumental version at the album's onset feels superfluous, lacking the substantive contribution needed to justify its presence. Streamlining the album's structure could have bolstered its impact and coherence, allowing each track to shine within a more cohesive sequencing framework.
While Loss Of Life showcases moments of brilliance, its inconsistency and lukewarm conclusion detract from its overall impact. Hopes for a spiritual successor to the cohesive masterpiece Congratulations are dashed by the album's disjointed nature and lack of thematic cohesion, leaving listeners yearning for a more harmonious journey that felt almost destined in the starry eyed opener. Despite its shortcomings, Loss Of Life stands as a testament to MGMT's meticulous production and occasional flashes of brilliance, albeit marred by its wavering focus and uneven execution.
