AJR, Bang! | Track Review 🎵

Alternative pop trio AJR are true to themselves, for better or worse on their first single of 2020, the enthusiastic, theatrical, millennially driven “Bang!”

Sometimes, you don’t actually have to say or sing anything to be considered a ‘polarizing’ musician or band.  In the case of alternative pop trio AJR, comprised of three brothers (Adam Met, Jack Met, and Ryan Met), they are definitely considered polarizing.  Some are a fan of their big, ornate, millennial style of alternative pop while others are less thrilled. Personally, I can handle the trio in moderation.  I was a fan of the song “100 Bad Days” (Neotheater) and find some of their production choices to be intriguing.  Where some folks dreaded hearing what their first single of the new decade might sound like, “Bang!”, I was interested to see what the Mets had to offer.

“Been a hell of a ride, but I’m thinking it’s time to grow…” That’s that millennial annoyance spirit!!! “Bang!” is pretty explosive – well – in certain parts to a certain degree.  The chorus is quite infectious, backed by the typical big, dynamic production AJR are known for.  “So put your best face on, everybody / Pretend you know this song, everybody,” Jack sings, continuing, “Come hang, let’s go out with a bang! / Bang! Bang! Bang!”  If you’re in merely for the chorus and the production, well, it’s worthwhile.

Still, perhaps if you find some millennial things annoying – such as the aforementioned quote featured at the beginning of the second paragraph – you’ll be less impressed with Jack’s assertion, “Put quinoa in my fridge, still I’m not feeling grown.” Yeah, that could explain some of the band’s polarizing characterization.  There’s also the childish line at the beginning of the second verse, “Feel like I’m gonna puke ‘cause my taxes are due…” Sure, we all complain about taxes, but in this context, it’s another example of AJR embracing the millennial spirit for better or worse.  Come to think of it, the chorus kind of does that too…

Final Thoughts

So, here’s the deal.  If you were a fan of AJR coming into “Bang!”, you’ll likely leave a fan post-“Bang!”.  If you weren’t particularly thrilled listening to them before “Bang!”, well, this record isn’t likely to move the needle.  If you don’t overthink it, you’ll definitely enjoy the song more.  Give it some credit for the chorus.  Shake your head about the nerdy quinoa reference.

AJR • “Bang!” – Single • AJR Productions / S-Curve • Release: 2.12.20

Photo Credits: AJR Productions / S-Curve