MGMT is an American psychedelic rock band formed in 2002 by Andrew VanWyngarden and Ben Goldwasser while they were attending Wesleyan University in Connecticut. The band’s sound is characterized by dreamy, synth-driven arrangements that are heavily influenced by psychedelic and experimental music. They gained widespread popularity with their debut album “Oracular Spectacular” in 2007, which included hit singles like “Electric Feel” and “Kids.”
Over the years, MGMT has continued to experiment with their sound, incorporating elements of shoegaze, funk, and pop music into their work. They have released several critically acclaimed albums, including “Congratulations” and “Little Dark Age.” Their music is known for its unique blend of catchy hooks and experimental flourishes, with complex arrangements and thought-provoking lyrics.
MGMT has also become known for their elaborate live shows, which often feature visual projections and costumes. They have won several awards and have been nominated for a Grammy Award for Best New Artist. Overall, MGMT has cemented themselves as a seminal band in the psychedelic rock genre, with a sound that is both experimental and accessible, and a legacy that has influenced countless other musicians.
10. MGMT – “The Youth”
“The Youth” is a song by MGMT, originally released on their 2007 debut album “Oracular Spectacular.” The song features a dreamy, synth-driven sound that is characteristic of the band’s psychedelic style. Lyrically, the song is about the loss of innocence and the challenges of growing up, with frontman Andrew VanWyngarden singing about the pressures of conformity and the search for meaning in life. “The Youth” became a hit for the band, receiving critical acclaim for its catchy melody and thought-provoking lyrics, and has since become a fan favorite and a staple of their live shows.
9. MGMT – “Love Always Remains”
“Love Always Remains” is a dreamy and introspective song by MGMT, released in 2007 as part of their album “Oracular Spectacular.” The song features a blend of electronic and acoustic elements, with lead singer Andrew VanWyngarden’s soothing vocals delivering the wistful lyrics. The song reflects on the fleeting nature of love and the enduring power of memories, with a memorable chorus declaring “love always remains, but everything else is gone.” The song’s introspective mood and melancholic melody have made it a fan favorite and a standout track on the album, showcasing MGMT’s talent for crafting thoughtful and evocative music.
8. MGMT – “Flash Delirium”
“Flash Delirium” is a song by American indie pop band MGMT, featured on their second studio album “Congratulations”. The track opens with a quirky and eclectic sound, with a mix of unconventional instruments and electronic elements. The vocals are delivered in a frenzied and frantic manner, adding to the song’s sense of chaos and delirium. The lyrics deal with themes of identity and self-discovery, with the chorus declaring “Now it’s time to re-imagine all the things that you’ve done”. “Flash Delirium” is a unique and experimental song that showcases MGMT’s ability to create unconventional and captivating music.
7. MGMT – “Weekend Wars”
“Weekend Wars” is a song by MGMT, originally released on their 2007 debut album “Oracular Spectacular.” The song features a psychedelic sound with a prominent synth melody and dreamy vocals. Lyrically, the song is about the monotony of everyday life and the desire to escape into a fantasy world, with frontman Andrew VanWyngarden singing about the struggles of the daily grind and the need for excitement. “Weekend Wars” received critical acclaim for its infectious melody and introspective lyrics, and has become a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live shows.
6. MGMT – “Pieces Of What”
“Pieces of What” is a thought-provoking and contemplative song by MGMT, released in 2007 as part of their album “Oracular Spectacular.” The song features a mix of electronic and acoustic elements, with lead singer Andrew VanWyngarden’s mellow vocals delivering the introspective lyrics. The song reflects on the search for meaning and identity in a world that often feels fragmented and disconnected, with a memorable chorus declaring “there are pieces of what, we used to call home.” The song’s introspective mood and evocative lyrics have made it a fan favorite and a standout track on the album, showcasing MGMT’s unique musical style and thoughtful songwriting.
5. MGMT – “Congratulations”
“Congratulations” is the title track and final song on American indie pop band MGMT’s second studio album of the same name. The track opens with a soft and dreamy sound, building gradually towards a euphoric and anthemic chorus. The vocals are delivered in a nostalgic and reflective tone, with the lyrics exploring themes of success, disillusionment, and the pursuit of happiness. The song features a wide range of instrumentation, including acoustic guitars, synths, and a horn section, showcasing the band’s diverse musical talents. “Congratulations” is a beautiful and introspective song that showcases MGMT’s ability to create deeply emotional and meaningful music.
4. MGMT – “Time To Pretend”
“Time To Pretend” is a song by MGMT, originally released on their 2005 EP of the same name and later included on their 2007 debut album “Oracular Spectacular.” The song features a synth-driven sound with a catchy melody and a driving beat. Lyrically, the song is about the allure and pitfalls of fame, with frontman Andrew VanWyngarden singing about the ups and downs of the rockstar lifestyle. “Time To Pretend” became a hit for the band, receiving critical acclaim for its infectious chorus and thought-provoking lyrics, and has since become one of their most beloved and iconic songs.
3. Kid Cudi feat. MGMT – “Pursuit Of Happiness”
“Pursuit of Happiness” is a collaboration between Kid Cudi and MGMT, released in 2009 as part of Kid Cudi’s album “Man on the Moon: The End of Day.” The song features a mix of hip-hop and rock influences, with Kid Cudi’s introspective verses and MGMT’s dreamy vocals and electronic sounds creating a unique sonic landscape. The song reflects on the pursuit of happiness and the challenges and setbacks that come with it, with a memorable chorus declaring “I’m on the pursuit of happiness and I know everything that shine ain’t always gonna be gold.” The song’s introspective mood, catchy melody, and innovative fusion of genres have made it a fan favorite and a standout track on the album.
2. MGMT – “Electric Feel”
“Electric Feel” is a song by American indie pop band MGMT, featured on their debut album “Oracular Spectacular”. The track features a catchy and upbeat sound, with a mix of psychedelic and electronic elements. The vocals are delivered in a playful and flirtatious manner, with the chorus declaring “All along the eastern shore, put your circuits in the sea”. The song’s infectious melody and catchy chorus made it a hit upon its release, and it has since become one of MGMT’s most popular and beloved songs. “Electric Feel” is a fun and upbeat track that showcases the band’s ability to create infectious and memorable pop music.
1. MGMT – “Kids”
“Kids” is a song by MGMT, originally released on their 2007 debut album “Oracular Spectacular.” The song features a catchy synth riff and a danceable beat, with dreamy vocals from frontman Andrew VanWyngarden. Lyrically, the song is about the innocence of childhood and the fear of growing up, with VanWyngarden singing about the desire to hold onto the freedom and wonder of youth. “Kids” became a hit for the band, reaching the top 10 on charts around the world, and has since become one of their most iconic and enduring songs, known for its infectious energy and memorable melody.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
