The Flaming Lips with Neon Indian cover

The Flaming Lips with Neon Indian

The Flaming Lips · 2011

21 min · 4 tracks · alternative rock

A kaleidoscopic blend of psychedelic rock and electronic textures that pushes the boundaries of both genres.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Is David Bowie Dying? — This track opens the album with a contemplative tone, merging haunting melodies and lyrics that evoke a sense of existential reflection on artistry and mortality.
  • →
    Do You Want New Wave or Do You Want the Truth, Part 2 — In this brief yet impactful track, the interplay between synthesized sounds and raw emotion encapsulates the tension between nostalgia and authenticity in modern music.
  • →
    You Don't Respond — The song features an engaging blend of lyrical vulnerability and lush instrumentation, highlighting the emotional core of the collaboration while showcasing Neon Indian's electronic influence.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100
Treeline
Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

This EP showcases strong experimental elements and distinct genre fusions, making it a notable entry in both artists' discographies.

What we noticed

  • The first track features a slow build with layered synths and vocal effects, creating an immersive atmosphere.
  • The second track incorporates a prominent theremin melody, which adds a unique texture distinct from typical rock instrumentation.
  • The third track shifts to a more upbeat tempo with a driving rhythm, contrasting the previous two tracks.
  • The final track combines spoken word elements with electronic beats, blending genres in an unconventional way.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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 — Deliberate departure from established sound, showcasing innovative collaboration.
Themes
David Bowie homage· cosmic soundscapes· playful experimentation
Career context
Released in early 2011, this collaboration marked a unique point in The Flaming Lips' career following their acclaimed album 'Embryonic'. At this stage, they were exploring more avant-garde collaborations and expanding their sonic palette through connections with contemporary artists like Neon Indian.
Stylistic neighbors
Animal Collective· Tame Impala· MGMT

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Is David Bowie Dying? 6:45
  • 2 Alan's Theremin 8:10
  • 3 You Don't Respond 3:49
  • 4 Do You Want New Wave or Do You Want the Truth, Part 2 2:56

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata