Time to Pretend
MGMT · 2005
27 min · 6 tracks · progressive rock
A vibrant fusion of electronic beats and psychedelic melodies that captures the spirit of youth and hedonism.
Top tracks — play these first
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Time to Pretend Start here — This track encapsulates the carefree ethos of youth while juxtaposing themes of existential dread, making it a defining anthem for a generation.
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Kids — As the standout single from the EP, Kids combines infectious melodies with introspective lyrics about childhood innocence lost, becoming emblematic of MGMT's signature style.
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Indie Rokkers — This track playfully critiques indie culture while showcasing MGMT's ability to blend humor and social commentary within an upbeat sonic framework.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The EP combines catchy melodies with layered instrumentation, establishing MGMT's unique sound early in their career.
What we noticed
- The first track, 'Time to Pretend', opens with a synth-driven melody that sets a vibrant tone for the EP.
- Each song features layered instrumentation, blending electronic beats with live instruments, creating a rich soundscape.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. 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.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- youthful exuberance and nostalgia
- reflective moments of joy
- playful sing-alongs with friends
- gradual rise to celebration
Maybe skip if you
- prefer longer, sprawling albums
- seek instant gratification tracks
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — This EP features 'Kids', which propelled MGMT into mainstream fame.
- Themes
- Wesleyan University nights· childhood innocence lost· indie culture critique
- Career context
- MGMT was emerging from their time as students at Wesleyan University when they released this debut EP in January 2005. The band had begun to gather attention with their innovative sound, which blended neo-psychedelia with electronic elements, setting the stage for their later commercial success.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Tame Impala· Pond· Empire of the Sun
Tracklist
- 1 Time to Pretend Start here 4:29
- 2 Boogie Down 3:32
- 3 Destrokk 3:44
- 4 Love Always Remains 5:38
- 5 Indie Rokkers 4:23
- 6 Kids 5:29
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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