Tame Impala takes on Seal’s Kiss From a Rose
When Tame Impala decided to dive into the Halloween spirit a day early, they found themselves in the studio for a special performance, covering the timeless track Kiss From a Rose by Seal for Australia’s triple j’s Like A Version series. The session wasn’t just a performance; it was a journey through musical history, blending the band’s signature synth sound with a deep appreciation for classic pop.
At the Sydney studios, the band gave the classic ballad a fresh, stripped-back, synth-driven makeover. This nod to the past was seamlessly followed by a pared-down rendition of their own hit, Dracula, setting a high bar for the rest of the broadcast.
For frontman Kevin Parker, the original song held a special, almost cinematic meaning. He revealed that Kiss From a Rose was featured on the very first CD he ever purchased—the Batman Forever soundtrack. This record introduced him to a lineage of iconic artists, including U2, The Flaming Lips, and Nick Cave, establishing a rich musical context for the cover.
This latest performance marks Tame Impala’s fourth appearance on the Like A Version project, showcasing the band’s enduring connection to reimagining classic material. It is a testament to their ability to find new life in established melodies.
The creative momentum carried by the band is palpable, especially following their recent chart achievements. The session came just as Tame Impala capped off what has been their most commercially significant year for the project.
The real headline, however, belongs to their solo release, Dracula. First released as a solo single in October 2025, the track exploded following a February remix featuring Jennie. This collaboration propelled the song to the top of the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number 5, and dominating Pop Airplay, Hot Rock & Alternative Songs, and Hot Dance/Electronic Songs for over six months.
The success of Dracula underscores the band’s current influence. Tame Impala recently concluded the Australian leg of their Deadbeat Tour, delivering a series of arena shows across Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney before concluding with hometown performances in Perth. This run cemented their place among the industry heavyweights.
With the Deadbeat album leading next month’s ARIA Awards with eight nominations—tied with Genesis Owusu—the band remains firmly at the center of contemporary music. Looking ahead, Tame Impala is set to hit the road again in May 2027 for a string of UK and European arena dates, followed by exciting summer festival appearances.