TAME IMPALA
Channel Heartache and Groove on 'Loser'
Tame Impala’s second single of the year has arrived. Following July’s shimmering 'End of Summer', Kevin Parker returns with 'Loser', a funk-driven slice of psychedelic pop that showcases both his trademark production and a new playful energy. Released alongside a cinematic video directed by Sam Kristofski and starring Stranger Things actor Joe Keery (a.k.a. Djo), the track continues Parker’s teasing rollout of fresh music since 2020’s The Slow Rush.
'Loser' immediately stands out for its effortless fusion of groove and melancholy. Built on a bed of elastic basslines and shimmering synths, the track drips with Tame Impala’s signature sonic polish while offering a looser, funkier edge. It’s a natural follow-up to 'End of Summer'—where Parker leaned into euphoric dancefloor textures—but here the focus shifts back toward his psych-pop roots, albeit with a sly wink toward disco and R&B.
The video elevates the song further. Keery plays a jilted romantic wandering the streets of Los Angeles, grabbing a drink from Bob’s Market and staring into the middle distance as if lost in memory. In one clever twist, Parker himself appears briefly in Keery’s place, mirroring his forlorn expression in identical clothes. It’s a simple but effective nod to the blurred lines between performer and performance, heartbreak and humour.
Vocally, Parker is in his element, delivering featherlight falsettos that sit comfortably atop the track’s irresistible groove. His lyrics, circling around rejection and self-doubt, contrast beautifully with the upbeat instrumentation, amplifying the bittersweet tone. As with much of Tame Impala’s best work, 'Loser' feels both personal and universal—a breakup song disguised as a dancefloor anthem.
While it’s not yet confirmed whether 'Loser' and 'End of Summer' will form part of a new album, the evidence suggests something bigger is brewing. With Parker teasing recording sessions and progress charts online, anticipation for Tame Impala’s next chapter is reaching fever pitch. If 'Loser' is any indication, the wait will be richly rewarded.