Random Access Memories by Daft Punk (Review)
[Originally Published on April 2, 2020]
One of the most notable themes of this decade has been egregious Grammy snubs for the most coveted prize: Album of the Year. From To Pimp a Butterfly to Beyonce’s Lemonade, the Academy has commissioned black artists to perform for viewership while overlooking their art during the ceremony. However, every once in a blue moon they get it right. As groundbreaking as Good Kid Maad City was in 2012, eventual winner Random Access Memories was equally deserving of the nod.
French electronic and house duo Daft Punk has been purposefully elusive. The fact that the artists have never appeared in one of their music videos or publicized their faces speaks volumes. Not only has it mythologized them, but behind their signature space helmets we can be sure that the music is most important to them. On his soul-bearing tape CARE FOR ME, Chicago native Saba rapped that in this generation “everyone wants to be seen, no one wants to be great.” Daft Punk is clearly not from this generation. Truthfully, they may not be from this planet.
Random Access Memories is a galactic journey through their genuine love for music. The songs are heavily auto-tuned and electronic, but without sacrificing soul. If anything, it amplifies the soul. Opener “Give Life Back to Music” is a funky, futuristic take on disco. Effortlessly relevant and eclectic as ever, Pharrell Williams makes his presence felt on the album. “Lose Yourself to Dance” is understated but effective, set in motion by Pharrell’s groovy vocals and a subtle, steady clap in the background. Mega hit “Get Lucky” sports similar strengths with a touch of grown and sexiness. “Beyond” is the soundtrack to a spiritual awakening and a revival of artistic passion. It melts into Motherboard, which is absent of vocals to leave listeners in a dreamy state that allows them to ponder how to translate their intrinsic talents into action.
The fist-pumping, auto-tuned track “One More Time” (2000) is an undeniably danceable record that left a mark on the pop industry for years to come. Like songs such as Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin”, the theme (celebration) was too ubiquitous for us not be captivated. Daft Punk’s Random Access Memories is an ode to the universality of music and its capacity to be an instrument of expression. It displays the reward listeners receive when artists take their time, carefully hone their craft, and don’t hold back. Put more simply: when the music hits, it just hits.
