Hear This: Tame Impala - Patience

Tame Impala returns with the appropriately named new single ‘Patience’, dropping almost four years on from 2015's phenomenal Currents. 

Image by Julio Enriquez via Flickr

Opening with a strong piano-driven intro, the Australian act has produced yet another anthem oozing in memorable refrains set off by Kevin Parker's distinct vocal style.

The upbeat melody is perfect as we transition to longer days and sunnier spells but this is juxtaposed by aptly antipodean lyrics that express doubtful self-awareness and anticipate the future apprehensively. The first line asks, "Has it really been that long? Did I count the days wrong?", mirroring the hiatus taken between their third album and this new single. Parker closes the song with, "Time takes from everyone", by way of explanation.

These grounded, intimate lyrics are a world away from the abstract 'Elephant' which propelled Tame Impala into the mainstream music scene seven years ago, but the atmosphere has been expertly crafted as ever. 

‘Patience’ certainly seems to mark a new era for Tame Impala, but it’s yet to be seen what else 2019 will bring for Perth's premier psych citizens. All that we know for certain is that many fans will forgive the four-year absence after hearing this stunning song.