MGMT Albums Ranked: Fan Favorites (2025)

Diving into the MGMT discography is a fascinating ride.

From the indie-sleaze anthems that defined a generation to their later psychedelic explorations, their sound has never stood still.

This creates a classic debate: what is the best MGMT album? We're setting out to create a list of MGMT albums ranked by the people who know them best—the fans.

This ranking is built on community sentiment and discussion, giving us a clear picture of their most cherished works.

Ranking MGMT's albums: The fan favorites

Here's how the albums stack up based on fan sentiment, community discussions, and overall buzz.

We're starting with the most beloved.

1. Oracular Spectacular (2007)

The debut album that needs no introduction, Oracular Spectacular, launched MGMT into the global consciousness.

Produced by Dave Fridmann, the record was built around massive singles like "Time to Pretend", "Electric Feel", and "Kids". These tracks were re-recorded for the album after appearing on earlier EPs.

While never a blockbuster in any single week, the album sold consistently for years, becoming a constant presence in the late 2000s music scene.

Critics praised its fresh production and songwriting, and it was even nominated for a Brit Award.

Key tracks:

• Kids
• Electric Feel

It's no surprise that Oracular Spectacular tops the fan ranking. It’s an album that defined an era for many listeners.

Its blend of irresistible synth-pop hooks and sly, youthful cynicism created a perfect storm. For countless fans, this isn't just an album; it's a collection of memories.

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2. Little Dark Age (2018)

After a period of sonic experimentation, MGMT returned with their fourth studio album, Little Dark Age.

The album marked a deliberate return to the pop sensibilities of their debut. It featured songwriting collaborations for the first time, including work with Ariel Pink and Patrick Wimberly.

Released in a tense political climate, the band noted that the mood of the world inspired them to create something fun and direct. The record was praised by critics as a significant return to form.

Key tracks:

• Little Dark Age
• When You Die

For many fans, Little Dark Age felt like a triumphant comeback. It masterfully blended the band’s signature weirdness with the sharp, infectious hooks that first made them famous.

The title track's viral success introduced a new wave of listeners to the band, cementing the album's status as a modern classic within their catalog.

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3. Loss Of Life (2024)

MGMT's fifth studio album, Loss Of Life, arrived after a six-year wait, their longest gap between records.

It was their first release on the Mom + Pop label and notably features the first-ever guest appearance on an MGMT album, with Christine and the Queens on "Dancing in Babylon".

The band described the creative process as a "relatively painless birth after a lengthy gestation period," striking a balance that felt about "20% adult contemporary."

Key tracks:

• Mother Nature
• Nothing To Declare

The immediate high placement for Loss Of Life shows a strong, positive reception from the fanbase.

Listeners quickly connected with its mature, often acoustic-led songwriting and heartfelt themes. It’s an album that rewards patience, revealing more depth with each listen.

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4. MGMT (2013)

The band's third, self-titled album, MGMT, saw them lean further into their experimental and psychedelic impulses.

Released in 2013, the band stated they weren't trying to make music that was immediately understood. The album was accompanied by "The Optimizer," a series of visual elements designed to create a unique aural and optical experience.

The record included a cover of Faine Jade's "Introspection" and received generally favorable, if sometimes perplexed, reviews from critics.

Key tracks:

• Alien Days
• Cool Song No. 2

MGMT is arguably the most divisive album in the band's discography, which explains its position in the ranking.

While less accessible than their other work, it has cultivated a dedicated following. The fans who connect with its dense, challenging soundscapes often consider it a misunderstood and rewarding piece of art.

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5. Congratulations (2010)

Following the massive success of their debut, MGMT made a sharp left turn with Congratulations.

The album was a deliberate departure from synth-pop, embracing a more guitar-driven, progressive, and psychedelic sound. The band famously declared they didn't want to release any traditional singles from it.

Produced with Sonic Boom of Spacemen 3, the album was a reaction to the "craziness" of their sudden fame, resulting in a complex and layered record.

Key tracks:

• Congratulations
• Flash Delirium

Congratulations is a true cult classic. Its ranking reflects its status as an album that challenged expectations, perhaps alienating some casual listeners at the time.

However, those who stuck with it often defend it as the band's creative peak. It's a sprawling, ambitious record that has only grown in stature among die-hard fans over the years.

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6. 11•11•11 (2022)

11•11•11 is a unique entry, as it's a live album of entirely original music. It was recorded in 2011 but not officially released until 2022.

The music was commissioned by the Guggenheim Museum for an art exhibition by Maurizio Cattelan. MGMT performed the 45-minute piece on a faux-fur-covered stage inside the museum's famous rotunda.

The performance was designed to be a one-of-a-kind musical experience to complement the unconventional art show.

Key tracks:

• Whistling Through the Graveyard
• Forest Elf

As a live, improvisational, and highly conceptual piece, 11•11•11 is naturally more of a deep cut for dedicated fans.

Its placement makes sense, as it doesn't offer the traditional studio album experience. It remains a fascinating document of the band's artistic curiosity.

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Picked your top MGMT classic? Check out MGMT's discography on their Roll The Record Artist hub.

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MGMT albums: A look at popularity data

While fan sentiment paints a rich picture, current popularity data can offer another interesting angle.

This looks at an artist's discography through a different lens.

Below is a ranking of MGMT's albums based on their popularity scores from available data. This reflects which releases are currently seeing significant engagement.

Popularity Rank	Album Title	Release Year
1	Oracular Spectacular	2007
2	Little Dark Age	2018
3	Loss Of Life	2024
4	MGMT	2013
5	11•11•11	2022
6	Congratulations	2010

Quick FAQs about MGMT's albums

Q: What three songs defined Oracular Spectacular?

A: The album was promoted by its three massive singles: "Time to Pretend", "Electric Feel", and "Kids". These tracks became anthems of the late 2000s indie scene.

Q: Was Oracular Spectacular a commercial success right away?

A: Not in the traditional sense. It never sold more than 17,000 copies in a single week but maintained consistent sales of at least 2,000 copies per week for over two years, giving it incredible longevity.

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So there you have it—a look at MGMT's albums ranked from two different perspectives.

Fan passion crowns Oracular Spectacular, but every record in their catalog has fierce defenders.

Ultimately, the best MGMT album is the one that resonates most with you. Their journey is a testament to artistic evolution, and each release offers a unique world to explore.

What does your personal ranking of MGMT's albums look like?