Album Review: Dance Of The Clairvoyants

Last month, Pearl Jam released “Dance Of The Clairvoyants,” their first single since 2018’s “Can’t Deny Me.” What’s that? Synth? In a Pearl Jam song? Yes, indeed it is. If you’re like me and have put yourself in a constant loop of listening only to Ten, Vs and Vitalogy, or even if “Can’t Deny Me” is the most recent PJ track you’ve heard, then this song may be a bit of a shock. While “Can’t Deny Me” follows what sounds like a logical progression from their previous work, it is difficult to draw parallels between “Dance” and any of their other work. 

The song is four minutes and 25 seconds long and is accompanied by two music videos, aptly titled “Dance Of The Clairvoyants Mach I” and “Dance Of The Clairvoyants Mach II,” directed by Joel Edwards and Ryan Cory, respectively. The song opens up on a tight drum and bass groove, followed shortly thereafter by a synth line. Eddie Vedder’s vocals on this track are reminiscent of those of David Byrne, with a breathy openness punctuated by jittery sudden stops and staccatos. However, this vocal quality is swept away by Vedder’s familiar gruffness during the choruses.

Certainly, Pearl Jam has tremendously evolved their sound since 1991’s Ten. “Dance Of The Clairvoyants” teases a new side of Pearl Jam that we have not seen before, which will likely rear its head on this upcoming album. 

Although “Dance Of The Clairvoyants” subverts many of the aspects of Pearl Jam that I fell in love with, I found it to be an enjoyable and creative track. It did not seem tired or wanting, but rather a truly curious vehicle for exploration. The track’s electronic influence does not mask the raw attitude and musicianship that has always shone through in Pearl Jam’s music.

I would give this track an 8/10. “Dance Of The Clairvoyants” shows us a new Pearl Jam, which I believe is a good thing. Pearl Jam has never tried to desperately grip onto what made each previous album great; they have always strived to make something new. That has given them the longevity and support which many bands from their era have not been able to retain. 

Pearl Jam is headed in a new direction. The success of this move can’t be fully judged by one track—however, if this single is any indicator of what’s to come, then I can safely say that Pearl Jam has still got it.