Synth Single Review: “Kids (MGMT cover)” by Tommy Countach

by Karl Magi

Tommy Countach’s “Kids (MGMT cover)” echoes with an unmistakable melody, transmitted on burnished synth which expands in clouds before the rushing foundations join glittering chimes and solid bass strength. Exuberance and vitality flow from the melody before Tommy Countach’s haunting and airy voice carries a complex mixture of emotions while the angular underlayer cuts cleanly.

The chorus is accompanied by silvery chimes and richly round notes calling out with a halo of feeling. The percussion rushes as jumping tones slash in clean motion and bass throbs beneath Tommy Countach’s undeniably affecting vocals. The jittery, electric energy of the song trembles while the vocals climb and the synth’s broad gleam suffuses the music with light.

A synth solo swirls and flies wildly, bending with vitality above the steady pounding supporting it. Tommy Countach’s voice drifts with a distinctive expression which I find enjoyable as rounded tones exude flickering light and a choppy sound in the distance carries the track to a conclusion.

The song reflects on childhood, growing up and the loss of innocence. At the start, a curious child explores the world while learning self control and how to accept consequences. As the song progresses, the imagery becomes more unsettling, touching on birth, fading memories, difficult decisions and the pain and uncertainty of growing up.