IDLES - TANGK
The album's positive trajectory serves as a beacon of hope, offering solace in tumultuous times, yet it remains an incomplete realization of IDLES' artistic vision.
By: Heidi Bray
On TANGK, there is a clear regathering, a collective inhalation, and a refocusing on IDLES' strengths after their previous two albums felt creatively strained.
IDLES' latest album, TANGK, presents itself as expansive, poetic, and ambitious, offering a sprawling album that navigates emotional depths without disrupting its fragile equilibrium.
While occasional spills and leaks occur, the album compensates by pushing artistic boundaries to new heights. The five-piece from Bristol, now five albums in, has taken admirable steps forward each step of the way. But on TANGK, there is a clear regathering, a collective inhalation, and a refocus on their strengths after CRAWLER and Ultra Mono felt creatively strained.
Contrary to initial impressions, TANGK reveals itself as a love album, as the emotionally charged bookends of the album envelop the listener in poignant softness.
The album illuminates a clear and tangible dichotomy between blunt power and exploratory space, albeit one that yearns for a tighter cohesion between its disparate elements. The gentle moments on songs like "IDEA 01", "A Gospel," and "Grace" are no doubt enhanced by the talented Nigel Godrich producing the record.
TANGK's positive trajectory serves as a beacon of hope, offering solace in tumultuous times, yet it remains an incomplete realization of IDLES' artistic vision.
TANGK tantalizingly hints at the band's potential, promising a future where their musical prowess attains full fruition. Across the album, certain tracks stand out and are distinctive. "POP POP POP" and "A Gospel" exude a delicate vibrancy, juxtaposing moments of introspection against the backdrop of explosive energy.
Meanwhile, staples sounds of the IDLES repertoire, such as "Dancer" and "Gift Horse," showcase the band's signature brooding urgency, underscored by a pulsing bassline that anchors the listener. Central to the thematic undercurrent of TANGK is its immersion in empathy and love, manifested through musical fireworks illuminating the darkened skies of current rock music.
Each track is intentional and focused - a shared commitment to crafting a musical narrative that resonates and echoes.
While TANGK may not achieve flawless coherence in its juxtaposition of elements, its merit lies in its willingness to grow as musicians and artists. The whole of which is anchored by singer Joe Talbot's unwavering confidence, his infectious snarl, and his delivery second only to his incredibly visual lyricism.
IDLES' new album, TANGK, is a strong statement on the importance of art in a changing world. It combines raw emotions and intense energy to create a powerful listening experience that blurs the lines between art and reality.
