5 Seconds of Summer make their high-anticipated return with single “Want You Back.” Ultimately, it’s a respectable return, but no revolutionary.

“I remember the freckles on your back / And the way that I used to make you laugh.” They’re back! Who? 5 Seconds of Summer, with the lead single of their third studio album, “Want You Back.” “Want You Back” is a relatively short comeback single for 5SOS, clocking in under three minutes. The saying, ‘good things come in small packages’ sort of applies here.

Initially, the record commences with ambient production work, clearly uncharacteristic of 5 Seconds of Summer up until this point.  Lead vocalist Luke Hemmings sings smoothly, matching the cool, calm, and collected production of the first verse.  Even so, it doesn’t keep him from dropping an early f-bomb.

“Can’t help but wondering if this

Is the last tie that I’ll see your face

Is it tears or just the f*cking rain?”

And y’all thought 5SOS were done after dropping bitches on “She’s Kinda Hot.” Ha!

Following the mellower, smooth first verse, the chorus is driven by a more commanding groove, which remains throughout the remainder of the song.  Likewise, Hemmings becomes more aggressive vocally.  The chorus is a selling point and the centerpiece of “Want You Back.” It’s nothing brand-new or revolutionary, but 5SOS make their point clearly.

“No matter where I go

I’m always gonna want you back

No matter how long you’re gone

I’m always gonna want you back

I know you know

I will never get over you

No matter where I go

I’m always gonna want you back

Want you back.”

Final Thoughts

How does new 5 Seconds of Summer stack up? It’s respectable, not revolutionary. Selling points include the groove, the falsetto, and an enjoyable chorus.  There are no simply awful cons, but the record is more cliché than groundbreaking.

5 Seconds of Summer • Youngblood • Capitol • Release: 6.22.18

Photo Credit: Capitol