Tame Impala’s latest single, “Dracula,” isn’t just a sonic exploration of nocturnal longing; it’s a carefully constructed mood piece that’s already resonating with listeners as the band prepares to release their fifth album, Deadbeat. Released initially in September 2025, and now amplified by a remix featuring Jennie of Blackpink, the track demonstrates Kevin Parker’s continued ability to blend introspective lyricism with a distinctly danceable groove.
A Nighttime Refuge
The song, as Parker himself describes through his production, is a study in contrasts. It opens with ethereal humming, quickly giving way to the signature Tame Impala bassline that defines much of his work. This juxtaposition of dreaminess and rhythmic drive creates a soundscape that feels both expansive and intimate. The lyrics themselves delve into a fascination with darkness, not as something sinister, but as a refuge. “The morning light is turning blue, the feeling is bizarre,” Parker sings, immediately establishing a discomfort with daylight. This feeling culminates in the repeated refrain, “Daylight makes me feel like Dracula,” a line that’s become central to understanding the song’s core themes.
The imagery isn’t simply about a literal aversion to sunlight. As several analyses point out, it’s about a preference for the anonymity and freedom that night provides. The lyrics suggest a persona that’s confident and even charismatic in the darkness – “Now I’m Mr. Charisma, fuckin’ Pablo Escobar” – but vulnerable and uncertain when exposed to the scrutiny of the day. This duality is a key element of the song’s appeal, tapping into a universal desire to present a curated self to the world.
Jennie’s Remix and the Expanding Universe of “Dracula”
The recent remix featuring Jennie adds another layer to this exploration. The lyrics reveal a playful interaction, with a line referencing a request from Jennie’s friends – “My friends are saying, ‘Shut up, Jennie, just get in the car’.” This inclusion, initially revealed through a lyric update on YouTube, signals a deliberate expansion of the song’s reach and a collaboration that’s clearly generating buzz. Jennie’s contribution doesn’t fundamentally alter the song’s core message, but it injects a new energy and introduces it to a wider audience.
The remix also highlights the song’s inherent suitability for a club setting. As one review notes, “Dracula” walks out of the club at dawn and refuses to squint. The song’s glossy, nocturnal bounce and kinetic energy are perfectly suited for late-night listening and dancing. The music video, teased in September 2025, further amplifies this aesthetic, emphasizing the surreal and nocturnal qualities of the track.
Themes of Longing and Inevitability
Beyond the surface-level fascination with darkness, “Dracula” explores deeper themes of longing and connection. The repeated plea, “I hope it’s you and me,” underscores a desire for intimacy and a fear of isolation. This longing is set against the backdrop of the night, where the protagonist feels most at ease and connected to their loved one. The lyrics also hint at a sense of inevitability, suggesting that this connection was “comin’ from afar,” implying a destined relationship forged in the shadows.
The song doesn’t shy away from vulnerability, either. The bridge poses a poignant question – “Would you ever love someone like me?” – revealing insecurities and a desire for acceptance despite the protagonist’s self-described darkness. This emotional depth adds another layer of complexity to the song, making it more than just a catchy tune.
A Cinematic Experience
Musically, “Dracula” is a masterclass in sonic layering. Shimmering synths, rhythmic percussion, and Parker’s airy vocal delivery all contribute to a cinematic quality. The interplay between the dreamy verses and the anthemic chorus creates a sense of narrative momentum, making the song feel like a mini-story unfolding in real-time. The chorus, with its insistent call to “Run from the sunlight, Dracula,” is particularly effective, transforming avoidance into something almost celebratory.
The song’s success lies in its ability to balance psychedelic textures with infectious rhythm. It’s a track that’s both dreamy and danceable, introspective and expansive. “Dracula” isn’t just a single; it’s a statement of intent, signaling that Deadbeat, due to arrive on , will be another compelling chapter in the Tame Impala story. The song’s exploration of duality, longing, and the search for self-acceptance resonates deeply, making it a standout track in Parker’s already impressive discography. The addition of Jennie’s remix only serves to amplify its reach and solidify its place as a defining song of the moment.
“Dracula” isn’t about vampires or the supernatural. It’s about finding sanctuary in the darkness, embracing vulnerability, and seeking connection in a world that often feels overwhelming. It’s a song about the parts of ourselves we hide from the light, and the people who make us feel comfortable enough to reveal them.
