Tame Impala has addressed concerns regarding claims of commercialism associated with his latest music. Kevin Parker, the creative force behind the project, is set to release his fifth studio album, titled Deadbeat, on October 17, 2023. In a recent conversation with Zane Lowe, he discussed the notion that his work has shifted towards making money rather than focusing on artistic integrity.
Tame Impala Responds to Commercialization Claims
Parker emphasized his commitment to his musical vision. He stated that if he were only interested in profit, he would simply replicate his past successes. “If I didn’t care about the music anymore… the way you would know that is if I just did the same thing again,” he explained. He argued that predictability would denote a loss of artistic passion.
The Risk of Innovation
Parker reflected on the risks associated with creative choices, particularly when he released his influential 2015 album Currents. He described the shift towards electronic sounds, saying it felt like a gamble at the time. “The whole album had fewer guitars and more drum machines, which was unknown territory for me,” he noted. This experimentation embodies his desire to avoid predictability in music creation.
- Album: Deadbeat
- Release Date: October 17, 2023
- Previous Album: Currents (2015)
Tour Plans Following Album Release
Tame Impala will embark on an extensive tour across the US, UK, and Europe starting in October 2025. The UK leg of the tour will commence in April 2026. Highlights of the UK schedule include performances at notable venues such as:
- O2 Arena, London – May 7, 2026
- Manchester – May 8, 2026
- Birmingham – May 9, 2026
- Glasgow – May 11, 2026
- Dublin’s 3Arena – May 13, 2026
As Parker prepares for this multi-country tour, fans eagerly anticipate the new direction his music will take with Deadbeat.
Hit Tracks and Past Success
Parker’s discussion with Lowe also touched on his earlier hits, including Elephant, which almost went unnoticed during its album’s production. He revealed that every song undergoes rigorous scrutiny before being finalized. Songs like New Person, Same Ol’ Mistakes have found broader recognition, including a cover by Rihanna on her album ANTI in 2016, which Parker expressed high admiration for.
In summary, Tame Impala’s Kevin Parker staunchly defends his artistic choices against claims of commercialism. With the upcoming release of Deadbeat and a significant tour, he continues to redefine his sound while staying true to his artistic integrity.
