Released in June 2008 as the second single from MGMT's breakout debut album Oracular Spectacular, "Electric Feel" captured the hazy, eccentric spirit of late-2000s indie pop. Written by band members Andrew VanWyngarden and Ben Goldwasser, the track combined infectious synth-funk grooves with surreal lyricism that kept listeners guessing for years. Far from a straightforward pop tune, the track operates as a clever blend of commercial gloss and psychedelic experimentation.
While many casual listeners assumed the lyrics described a romantic encounter or marine biology references, VanWyngarden later clarified the true intent during a television appearance, pointing directly toward altered states. Understanding how this track came together requires looking past its catchy basslines into its composition, reception, and cultural legacy.
Anatomy of a Psychedelic Pop Hit
The production of "Electric Feel" relies heavily on unconventional structures for mainstream music. Written primarily in a 6/4 time signature, the song gives its phrasing a rolling, expansive feel that pulls the listener forward without conforming to standard 4/4 radio structures.
The track came together rapidly during early recording sessions at Tarbox Road Studios in upstate New York, mirroring the casual dorm-room origins of much of MGMT's early material. The core elements include:
- A bouncing synth bassline that drives the rhythm section.
- Falsetto vocal delivery that mimics classic funk and soul tropes.
- Layered analog synthesizers creating an atmospheric, hallucinogenic backdrop.
By balancing organic instrumentation with electronic elements, the duo crafted a sound that defined the indie sleaze era.
Lyrical Interpretation and Meaning
Listeners frequently debate the literal meaning of the lyrics, particularly lines concerning a "girl who's electric" and aquatic imagery. However, the songwriting leans heavily into surrealism rather than literal storytelling.
When pressed about the lyrical themes during a performance on The Late Show with David Letterman, VanWyngarden noted candidly that the song references drug culture rather than literal concepts. The whimsical phrasing acts as a vehicle for a broader psychedelic experience, capturing a surreal distortion of reality. Rather than telling a coherent narrative, the verses build a sensory collage of neon colors, late-night environments, and altered perceptions.
Commercial Performance and Remix Culture
The track didn't instantly dominate American radio charts upon release, instead building momentum through alternative channels, blog hype, and international touring.
It eventually achieved significant global milestones:
- Peaked at number 7 on the Australian ARIA charts, making it a massive antipodean hit.
- Reached the top 30 across multiple European territories including the UK and Ireland.
- Received a major chart resurgence in the US years later following a high-profile cover on The Voice.
The song's footprint expanded even further through official remixes. Most notably, the French electronic music duo Justice reworked the track into a club-ready anthem. The Justice Remix won the Grammy Award for Best Remixed Recording, Non-Classical in 2009, bridging the gap between indie rock audiences and global electronic dance music culture.
Visuals and the Iconic Music Video
MGMT released a distinct music video directed by Ray Tintori that heavily reinforced the song's hallucinogenic reputation. The visual features an extravagant, candy-colored journey through a jungle setting populated by animal-human hybrids, cartoon characters, and the infamous animatronic band The Rock-afire Explosion.
In the climax of the video, characters slice open the moon, bathe in a glowing neon substance, and eventually crash motorcycles into the lunar body, causing it to explode in a shower of vibrant colors. The imagery cemented the song's association with 1960s and 1970s psychedelic art filtered through a modern digital lens.
Frequently Asked Questions
What genre is Electric Feel?
The track sits primarily within psychedelic pop, synth-rock, and indie pop, incorporating elements of electronic dance and funk.
Who wrote the song?
It was written by Andrew VanWyngarden and Ben Goldwasser, the core founding members of MGMT.
Did the song win any awards?
While the original track earned widespread critical acclaim—landing high on year-end lists by publications like NME—the official Justice remix won a Grammy Award in 2009.
Why is the time signature unusual?
Unlike standard radio hits that utilize a rigid 4/4 rhythm, "Electric Feel" utilizes a 6/4 time signature, giving the groove a rolling, slightly hypnotic cadence.
