Written by Emily Ynaya
Tame Impala has become the name of psychedelic indie music. Kevin Parker birthed the name Tame Impala in 2007, where it started as a home-recording studio project where he’d post songs and snippets on his MySpace page. This one-man project produces sounds that blur the lines between nostalgia and the future. Tame Impala’s fifth album, Deadbeat, released less than two weeks ago, which carries on his electronic and dreamy exploration of music. Here are 10 artists you need in your rotation if you want more of his signature sound.
1. MGMT
This group paved the way for psychedelic pop, with staples like “Kids” and “Time to Pretend” that capture the escape reality retro-pop energy. Their later work, Little Dark Age, is a darker and moodier synth-driven vibe – perfect for those who aren’t afraid of a little experimentation mixed with comforting sounds.
2. M83
If you aren’t afraid to feel your emotions, M83 will take you there. Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming just turned 14 years old, but it was far ahead of its time. Cinematic yet nostalgic, there really aren’t enough words to describe the feelings this album brings. M83 feels like holding onto your youth, and songs like “Wait” and “Midnight City” turn every listen into a daydream.
3. The Strokes
If you’re listening to Tame Impala on your late night drive, The Strokes is your morning after artist. Although not psychedelic rock, they share the same heavy guitar riffs that tickle your brain. Effortless sounds that flow over laid-back vocals, heard throughout “The Adults Are Talking” and “Chances.” Less trippy, but still brings the same boost of serotonin that you find throughout Tame Impala’s discography.
4. Sunbeam Sound Machine
If Tame Impala had a cool younger brother, it’s Australia’s Sunbeam Sound Machine. “In Your Arms” features a hazy production with glimmering guitars and airy vocals. Sounds that make you feel like you’re floating, it’s an endless hypnotic dream. Perfect for fans who want a little softer and hazy sound with similar elements.
5. Men I Trust
Effortlessly cool, Men I Trust is a personal staple in my playlists. Soft vocals over dreamy basslines, they bring the perfect blend of lo-fi music to dreamy soundscapes. With reverb and delay, “Show Me How” becomes almost hypnotic with how lost you can get in the vibe of their sounds. Psychedelic pop for your quieter days.
6. Jungle
A more funky groove that keeps you moving would be Jungle. Disco and soul at the same time, they radiate this warm rhythmic energy that makes you want to dance. Songs like “Back on 74” and “Keep Moving” have a funk that keeps you hooked. Every song sounds like a sunset rooftop party, so let Jungle be your next fix when you want to dance!
The production of all their music is euphoric and epic. “We Are The People” and “Walking on a Dream” are less psychedelic rock, and more of a euphoric and synth-filled experience. If an object could describe this experience, it’s like existing in a kaleidoscope – colorful, playful and impossible not to like.
8. Daft Punk
This iconic electronic music duo is a must. They are no strangers to layering dreamy sounds over electronic beats, where they seamlessly collaborate disco with psychedelic pop. “Instant Crush” (featuring Julian Casablancas of The Strokes) and “Veridis Quo” are some of many iconic songs that are the perfect dance groove.
9. Mild High Club
Bringing a little jazz to this list, this is a more mellow vibe that still brings the dreamy sound to your ears. Tracks like “Homage” and “Skiptracing” have this nostalgic yet chill aura. This artist is the perfect listen for the more introspective Tame Impala fans.
10. Temples
From Kettering, England, these four members offer a modern twist on the traditional psych-rock. Their songs sound bright and airy, with heavy guitars and basslines that still bring the nostalgic but hypnotic feel. “Shelter Song” and “Certainty” are catchy yet dreamlike. Contemporary meets dream-pop with this band, and they still manage to captivate a psychedelic energy to keep you listening.
Final Thoughts
There’s a common theme here: Tame Impala fans can’t resist a melodic and dreamy tune that brings emotion and playfulness together. Elements like hazy vocals and intense guitar riffs is what makes this list so cohesive with Tame Impala. With experimentation between retro funk and modern pop, there really are countless artists out there who can bring a similar yet mesmerizing new tune to your playlist.
