MGMT - (We Don’t) Care - EP (2004) - Review

One of the most interesting, lesser-known EPs by a band is MGMT’s (The Management) first-ever release, We (Don’t) Care (2004). It’s a rough and lo-fi synth-pop that showcases excellent songwriting talent from the get-go. Although the production on the EP isn’t incredible, it is one hundred percent worth the listen since it is brilliant.

The first song on the EP is “We Care” and it kicks off with a great use of feedback and distortion. The song totally sounds like a mix of shoegaze and 60’s psychedelia. I love the Orchestral Maneuvers in the Dark-sounding vocals in these earlier MGMT projects.

“Everything’s Happenin’ So Fast” is such a great song I am shocked it never got a proper production and release. The melodies in this song are great, like a mix of melancholy and playfulness.  The syncopated piano chords during the verses add to the playful feel of the song. The synths have a great warped analog sound to them. The introspective lyrics complement the instrumental very well.

“Love Always Remains” is an underrated and fantastic song. The airy-sounding synths are so pleasant and enhance the lyrics. I like the way they utilize a sense of chaos when both are singing different lines. It’s interesting to catch a glimpse of their Oracular Spectacular style throughout this one.

“Grutu (Just Becuz)” starts with some catchy ass synth leads which is immediately followed by a great bass sound. The horn synth sounds like a toy from the 80s and it’s pretty funny. I wish they would remix these sounds because a polished version of this would be great.

The first version of “Kids” is on here and it’s pretty good. It has a much more lo-fi and gritty sound. I like this version, but the production on the album version enhances the song. The synths and vocals sound unpolished but it’s still a great song.

The final song on the We (Don’t) Care - EP is “We (Don’t) Care” and it is an awesome song. The song also has a great sound selection like most of the project. This is the most 80s-sounding song on here and it is great. This sounds like it could be an Orange Juice song or even Talking Heads at parts. A great song that deserves a polished mix.

This EP showcases how talented these guys were from the very start. It’s the best you can get out of a first project from a young band. It would be great if these were remixed at some point since they’re solid, catchy songs. Ultimately if you like MGMT and haven’t heard this check it out because its great.

9/10 - Excellent EP