5 Seconds of Summer, “2011” | Track Review

Australian pop collective 5 Seconds of Summer are in reminiscent mode on their latest single, “2021” where they seek to return to simpler times.

“I

 miss the days when we were young and not too wise.” 5 Seconds of Summer are in reminiscent mode on “2011”, returning to simpler times. “2011” runs a respectable length, crossing three-minutes-and-fifteen seconds.  The record commences with an enigmatic, atmospheric intro that is inviting and slick.  “2011” features a quick tempo, with ample energy and intensity, particularly as the record progresses.

Notably, this 5SOS song has more of a pop/rock vibe, as opposed to embracing ‘modern pop’ alone. Still, “2011” features some synths and a contemporary palette of sounds.  We get poised, tasteful vocals on the verses ( Calum Hood) – nothing too crazy. The verses establish reflection and reminiscence, while the catchy chorus confirms it:

“Why do we complicate it?
Why do we get so jaded?
Can we just go back, go back to 2011?
(Can we go back?)
Why do we ruin our dreams?
Why do we sabotage things?
Can we just go back, go back to 2011?
(Can we go back) to 2011?”

Prior to the chorus, the pre-chorus is worthwhile, referencing the collective’s song, “Old Me” from their 2020 album, CALM (“Maybe it’s just too late for the old me / Maybe there’s no point in holding on to something closely”).  There is also a nice, extended bridge/outro section (“Back to the days, when the days were better”). During this portion of the song, I love the pummeling drums and the dynamics.

---

Final Thoughts

All in all, 5 Seconds of Summer deliver another enjoyable, well-rounded song with “2011.”  They don’t change the pop game, let alone world on this record, but it’s a respectable addition to their catalog.  Will we remember it years from now? Probably not, but it gets the job done for now.

---

5 Seconds of Summer • “2011” • 5SOS, LLC / BMG Rights Management • 12.3.21
[: 5SOS, LLC, BMG Rights Management, Brent Faulkner, The Musical Hype, OpenClipart-Vectors from Pixabay]

---