‘Calm’ amid chaos
Courtesy of E! News
Despite the darkness of the current situation, 5 Seconds of Summer has brought light to countless fans with the release of their new album “Calm” on Friday, March 27. The album release was a strange one since the band was separated due to social distancing efforts, but they made the best of the situation. In an effort to keep themselves and their fan base united, the band posted instructions on their social media accounts prior to the release, stating that listeners should press play on the album simultaneously so they could all listen together.
A livestream was led by drummer Ashton Irwin until it was passed over to bassist Calum Hood. The band’s guitarist Michael Clifford and lead vocalist Luke Hemmings also joined later on. Although they were separated, they were all celebrating in their different ways – Clifford even had a cake for the occasion. Approximately 54,300 fans tuned in to listen and celebrate this anticipated release, which brought together 5 Seconds of Summer fans all around the world.
“Calm” is 5 Seconds of Summer’s first album with Interscope Records, as the band had previously spent six years at Capitol Records. The album is comprised of 12 tracks including popular singles such as “Easier” and “Teeth.” Similar to their previous album “Youngblood,” this release revealed yet another new sound for the Australian group. Acoustic ballads and pop-infused beats line the emotional rollercoaster of an album. It is important to understand that these emotions do not belong to the band collectively: Each song is embedded with life experiences and emotions which are unique to an individual band member. This has allowed each member to express themselves and develop a musically complex album.
The sound of 5 Seconds of Summer’s previous album, “Youngblood,” was very different from their more alternative roots, but it was well received. Therefore, on “Calm” the band decided to cater to a pop audience while still staying true to their style. That being said, the band had the assistance of Charlie Puth and other pop artists to make this album a success. They also invited back the co-writers and co-producers of “Youngblood,” including Ali Tamposi, Andrew Watt and Louis Bell. With the help of these musicians, 5 Seconds of Summer has been able to turn their vision of a raw, hard-hitting album into a reality.
After singles such as “No Shame” it didn’t seem like the group could get any better, but 5 Seconds of Summer pumped out countless hits with “Calm.” The first song on the album, “Red Desert,” is laced with beautiful harmonies and captivating lyrics. The band also offered listeners a treat when bassist Calum Hood took a lead with vocals in “Wildflower,” which may remind fans of the song “Babylon” from “Youngblood.”
Following this was “Best Years,” a tear-jerker that resembles a wedding song and incorporates a soft piano, bass and guitar. The song “Not In The Same Way” carries a familiar sound, but its diverse production carries potential for a great live performance. Similarly, “Thin White Lies” and “Lonely Heart” are comprised of echoing bass beats and strong drumbeats that could translate positively to an onstage performance.
The songs “Lover Of Mine” and “High” are slower compared to the rest of the album, but fans took to Twitter the night of the release and praised these songs for passionately addressing love and relationships.
No matter what song ends up being a fan favorite, one thing is for sure: The fan response to 5 Seconds of Summer’s newest album was not the least bit “Calm.”
