5 Seconds of Summer 5SOS5 Album Review
5 Seconds Of Summer is back with their long awaited fifth studio album “5SOS5” ! Featuring 19 new tracks all written and produced by the band, this marks their first independently released project since 2012 and first album since the pandemic. From releasing five singles in the months leading up to the full album, we fans have gotten a delightful taste of what was to come.
Luke Hemmings, the lead man of the band, sat sidesaddle as drummer Ashton Irwin took the reins on production and vocals along with bassist Calum Hood on the track titled “You Don’t Go To Parties”. Guitarist Michael Clifford took over vocals and production on “Emotions.” Irwin, Clifford and Hood typically play minor roles in vocals so it was nice to hear them showcase their talents beyond just the instruments we know and love. 5SOS5 is a substantial step up lyrically, vocally and instrumentally from each member.
After a full week thoroughly listening through each song, I realized just how far 5 Seconds Of Summer have progressed from the early days of 2011. The placement of each song down the track-list makes perfect sense flawlessly transitioning vibes of the album. With 11 years of experience together as a band, their sound is more mature and polished than ever. 5SOS even thoughtfully included a song describing the strength of their friendship and what it means to them. The lyrics read:
“I got the best friends in this placе
And I'm holdin' on. Memories I hold to keep safe”
the song itself is titled ‘Best Friends’. To top this, the song titled “Older”, with its almost haunting melody, highlights vocals of featured singer-songwriter, Sierra Deaton, Fiancé of Luke Hemmings. This song is an ultimate love song and is an ode to their upcoming marriage as the lyrics proclaim:
“I don't wanna get older
Without your head on my shoulder…
As forever comes closer
Hope the world will spin slower
I don't wanna get older
Stare at the photograph
Suddenly takes me back
The promises roll off your breath
In your cocaine-colored wedding dress”
I once read a quote about love which beautifully summarized everything I felt as the song was playing. “True love stories never have endings.” “Older” is truly an embodiment of this statement. I can try to describe it but I recommend listening to get the full effect.
In summary, one thing Luke, Ashton, Michael and Calum do not lack throughout this body of work is consistency. 5SOS5 continues to blow me away every time I listen. Inevitably I hit the repeat button and you will too!
-XOXO Rachel
