What makes It's Working by MGMT notable?

The album is significant for its divergence from the pop sensibilities of its predecessor, showcasing MGMT's willingness to embrace more experimental sounds. While it did not achieve the same commercial success as 'Oracular Spectacular,' it garnered critical acclaim for its boldness, further solidifying MGMT's role in shaping the neo-psychedelic genre. When 'It's Working' was released in 2010, MGMT was navigating the aftermath of their highly successful debut album, 'Oracular Spectacular.' This sophomore effort followed a period of intense media scrutiny and public expectation, as the band sought to redefine their sound while still appealing to a mainstream audience.

How many songs are on It's Working?

It's Working has 1 track, running approximately 4 minutes.

It's Working

MGMT · 2010

4 min · 1 track · progressive rock

A vibrant blend of psychedelic synths and driving rhythms that captures a sense of restless experimentation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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It's Working — This title track encapsulates the album's themes of disillusionment and existential reflection through an infectious groove and complex production layers.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

45 /100

Lowland

Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

The track showcases experimental elements but lacks the depth for lasting engagement.

What we noticed

The track features a repetitive synth line that builds in intensity, layered with various electronic effects throughout its duration.
Vocals are delivered in a detached style, often harmonizing with themselves to create an ethereal quality.
The song shifts dynamics several times, alternating between quieter verses and explosive choruses that emphasize the driving rhythm.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Experimental — Showcases a significant departure from their earlier pop sound.
Themes: media scrutiny· psychedelic experimentation
Career context: When 'It's Working' was released in 2010, MGMT was navigating the aftermath of their highly successful debut album, 'Oracular Spectacular.' This sophomore effort followed a period of intense media scrutiny and public expectation, as the band sought to redefine their sound while still appealing to a mainstream audience.
Stylistic neighbors: Tame Impala· Pond· Empire of the Sun