First Impression

Tame Impala’s fifth studio album, Deadbeat, immediately caught me off guard. Kevin Parker has moved away from the dreamy psychedelic rock we all know him for and dived headfirst into electronic and dance music. I could hear the influence of Australian bush doofs and rave culture in almost every track. I was excited to see him experiment, but I also kept wondering if this new sound would actually work or feel a bit flat. Let’s break down each track and see how Deadbeat really lands.

About the Album: What to Expect

Deadbeat is a 12-track ride through house, techno, and Parker’s signature psychedelic touches. He still does all the production and instrumentation himself, which I always respect, but listening to the album, I couldn’t help noticing that some songs feel more like experiments than fully polished tracks. A few moments really hit, but others left me wishing for a bit more cohesion or emotional depth. Overall, it’s an interesting shift, and I was curious to see which tracks would stick with me.

Every Song on the Deadbeat Album, Ranked

1. Piece of Heaven

Okay, I am obsessed with this one. It hits so hard with those bright synths and that addictive beat. Parker nailed the balance between electronic experiments and melodic hooks. I play this on repeat constantly.
Rating: 9.5/10

2. Obsolete

Obsolete slaps. The energy, the beats, the psychedelic touches all come together perfectly. Seriously, if you love dancey Tame Impala vibes, this one is a must.
Rating: 9.3/10

3. Afterthought

Afterthought sneaks up on you. It’s dreamy and reflective, subtle but emotionally resonant. One of those tracks that lingers in your head long after listening.
Rating: 9.2/10

4. Dracula

Dracula is dark, moody, and cinematic. I feel like I am at a mini horror movie rave every time I listen. It is intense and one of the coolest vibes on the album.
Rating: 9.1/10

5. Oblivion

Hypnotic and smooth, Oblivion is deceptively intricate. You can just zone out to it and enjoy the layers. One of those tracks that grows on you with each listen.
Rating: 8.5/10

6. Not My World

Chill and melancholic, Not My World is subtle but immersive. Not as immediate as the top tracks, but it sneaks into your brain over time.
Rating: 8.2/10

7. My Old Ways

Reflective and nostalgic, My Old Ways is a slow burn. I like it, but it does not hit like the stronger tracks. Still enjoyable if you are paying attention.
Rating: 8/10

8. Loser

Fun and playful, but honestly a bit forgettable. It adds variety to the album, but I kept thinking “next track please.”
Rating: 7.5/10

9. No Reply

Some cool production moments here, but I had a hard time connecting emotionally. Feels experimental without fully landing.
Rating: 7/10

10. End of Summer

Bittersweet and gentle, but drags a bit. Feels more like filler than a memorable track.
Rating: 7/10

11. See You On Monday (You’re Lost)

Messy and scattered. I get the experimentation, but it did not work for me and felt frustrating at times.
Rating: 7/10

12. Ethereal Connection

I tried to like it, I really did. Some nice moments, but mostly it just floats by and leaves no impression. Feels like filler compared to the rest of the album.
Rating: 7/10

Overall Impressions: What Works and What Doesn’t

Deadbeat shows Kevin Parker is not afraid to experiment and push his sound in new directions. The electronic beats and dance-inspired production are ambitious, fun, and at times genuinely exciting. That said, it is impossible not to compare it to Currents, which is such a cohesive, emotionally rich album that Deadbeat naturally feels a little uneven in comparison. Some tracks are instant earworms and stuck in my head immediately, while others feel like Parker is testing waters and experimenting without fully landing. I appreciate the risk-taking, and there are definite highlights, but it does not quite reach the highs of his previous work. My personal overall rating is ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️4/5

Should You Listen?

Deadbeat is a bold, playful, and experimental step in a new direction for Tame Impala. If you enjoy electronic and dance music or just love seeing artists take risks, there are tracks that are impossible not to enjoy. That said, if you fell in love with the lush, introspective sound of Currents, this album might feel harder to connect with at first. Some songs hit immediately, others take a few listens to grow on you, and a few feel like experiments that did not fully land.

If you are curious about Parker’s evolution and enjoy exploring different sounds, Deadbeat is worth checking out. Approach it with an open mind and be ready for a few wild rides along the way. What are your thoughts on Deadbeat? Share your favorite tracks or critiques in the comments below