The hiatus that has kept The Temper Trap largely away from the public eye since 2018 has happily come to an official end with the release today of their fourth studio album, Sungazer. Taking much-needed time off to focus on their personal lives and other creative projects has certainly had no apparent side effects musically, with this new album feeling cohesive and creatively robust.
Well known for 2008’s “Sweet Disposition”, they are, of course, so much more than just one song, and there’s no shortage of delights on offer on Sungazer. Lead vocalist and songwriter, Dougy Mandagi, possesses – in my humble opinion – one of the most hauntingly beautiful and unique voices in music, and I have yet to be left unmoved any time I hear him sing.
Opening track “Lucky Dimes” instantly infuses your brain with the familiar sounds of The Temper Trap, but also brings in a meatier, anthemic presence with heavy, distorted drums and guitar. It’s immediately catchy and a great introduction to Sungazer. This flows through to “Into The Wild”, and there’s no mistaking that we’re back in the company of one of Australia’s best bands. The drums that punctuate throughout against the soaring Mandagi vocals are a delight.
Seemingly referencing the burnout that led to the band’s hiatus, “Bird On A Wire” explores the loss of will and drive for the touring lifestyle with the lyrics, “you go at it alone like a rolling stone, the monkey on your back saying you don’t wanna do this anymore, you don’t have the fire anymore, no”. This sentiment continues in “Giving Up Air” where Mandagi talks about hoping his dreams will reappear. Musically, it’s the converse, with an upbeat, danceable vibe that plays nicely against the lyrics.
The standout track for me is “Dystopia Radio”, which feels like a recalibration or development of their sound, and perhaps the clearest example of the apparent benefit of taking all that time away and focusing on their own interests. It’s strong, contemporary, and fresh.
Closing out with “Kuru”, another reference to the disconnection they experienced prior to the hiatus, this is the magical, ethereal sound of The Temper Trap that drew us to them in the first place, and kept us waiting patiently for their return.
Sungazer is a beautifully crafted album and a glorious comeback by a superbly talented Australian band. Welcome back; we missed you.
The Temper Trap are currently supporting Muse on their North American tour and will be back in Australia in September and October for a series of live shows. Click HERE for tickets.
Sungazer is out now.
FOUR AND A HALF STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
Header image credit: @zimmermann.alberto
