IDLES: TANGK is a fierce, optimistic and delicate piece of art
‘TANGK’ is the fifth studio album by the incredibly popular and distinctive Bristol band, IDLES. Their music and their image has ensured they have grown a cult following and are currently giants in the British rock scene. They have been sprinting a marathon and this new addition to their discography is only proof that they are getting bigger, faster, and brighter.
When you think of IDLES you usually think of gritty shouting with fast, loud guitars and a mean drum beat. Although all of those elements which make the band so unique are still most definitely there, this new album is a refreshing and beautiful evolution of their sound that incorporates what fans love about them with an incredibly patient and beautiful outlook.
There is a bit for everyone on the new album with songs like ‘Hall & Oates’, ‘Gift Horse’ and ‘Jungle’ being some of their fiercest work, reminiscing the energy of Ultra Mono (the band’s third studio album). These songs are incredibly upbeat with piercing guitar riffs, bold drums, an almost immersive bass line as well as Joe Talbot (beautifully) barking along using his distinctive charm.
And although an album filled entirely with this type of sound is the kind of thing I am sure OG IDLES fans (including myself) would obsess over, this album makes room for a more self-aware and introspective approach from these five men and it is fantastic.
When I first heard the singles that were released prior to the album such as ‘Dancer’, ‘Grace’ and ‘Gift Horse; I enjoyed them but was unsure as to what direction the band was going in and wasn’t convinced. ‘Grace’ in particular seemed to lack that oomph we are so used to.
Upon experiencing the album in its full I completely get it. Artists don’t really do what IDLES have done with this album, I know that is an exaggeration and it has been done before but a lot of music particularly in the world of modern post punk is very focused on issues or stories, this is positivity in its fullest form.
It makes you happy and you can tell that IDLES music is incredibly personal to them, but you can also see the point that they are in with their lives. They are content and optimistic and songs like ‘Gratitude’ ooze this mentality. It is also crystal clear how passionate they are about the importance of spreading positivity.
It really feels like we have turned a page and are in a new IDLES era and it is so exciting. ‘Dancer’ is a good example of how their new music has become more accessible.
This more fun, alternative sound that really utilises Talbot’s voice is beautiful. As I said, the distinctive Joe Talbot bark still shines like a bright light but songs like ‘POP POP POP’ show us this raw and magnificent edge to his voice. A larger range and a more refined tone. I have been completely blown away by the music. The band has done really well to strip back to the basics (at times) and let you feel the rumbles of each element clearly.
The final track on the album ‘Monolith’ mainly consists of a deep heavy bass and just lets Talbot go. It is soft, it is delicate, and it is genuine. The range that the album achieves from in-your-face fantastic rock to beautiful melodies is incredible. The optimism of the album ensures that it all works so well together and there is such a good balance of the heavy and the light.
TANKG develops the band’s sound while also being fun and delivering on exactly what you want from IDLES. It is kind, aware, intelligent, and just brilliant.
Overall rating: 4.5/5
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