TANGK, the fifth album from IDLES and the follow-up to their Grammy-nominated Crawler, finds the band evolving and exploring new sonic terrain.
With TANGK, IDLES deliver their most ambitious and striking work to date. Co-produced by the diverse team of Nigel Godrich, Kenny Beats, and IDLES' own Mark Bowen, it’s a love album at its core, a rallying cry for anyone seeking solace in the face of existential dread. Pronounced "tank" with a hint of the "g," the word originated as an onomatopoeic reference to the band's guitar tone but has since evolved into a symbol of living with love at the forefront.
Once known for their confrontational post-punk anthems, the band now offers a radical sense of defiant empowerment and gratitude for the mere opportunity of existence. Frontman Joe Talbot, known for his incendiary delivery, showcases a newfound vulnerability and soulfulness in his vocals, elevating each song to the status of a bona fide pop anthem, making them meant to be shared and celebrated by all.
Despite their punk roots, TANGK exudes a sense of communal joy and solidarity, with each track serving as a beacon of hope in these crazy times. From lustful vows to calls for unity, IDLES imbue every moment with a sense of urgency and authenticity, begging you to join them in embracing love and overcoming grievances. As IDLES continues to challenge expectations, TANGK is the sound of a band speaking truth to power.