Alternative rock darlings Arcade Fire return in a big, groovy way with “Everything Now,” the promo single from their upcoming album of the same title.

Arcade Fire returns in a big way with their new single, “Everything Now.”   Arguably the best way to characterize “Everything Now” is a dance-rock single.  This isn’t the first time that the indie-rock band has put on their dancing shoes. On their previous album, 2013 effort Reflektor, the collective had us dancing with the title track.  Still, “Everything Now” is anything but a copycat. If anything, it feels like there’s more disco flavor, yet it doesn’t compromise the alternative sensibilities.

First and foremost, Win Butler sounds beastly on vocals.  No, he doesn’t deliver any gospel histrionics which tap into deep emotion, but he offers a respectable, tasteful performance, intact with its playful moments.  He’s aided by back vocals that sound like they hail from directly from the disco from the 70s, reiterating the title, “everything now.”  On his end of things, he helps to make “Everything Now” awesome.

Next, the production work is the hit.  The use of rhythmic guitars is a brilliant choice, retaining an acoustic, folksy vibe against the danceable groove.  Other excellent instrumental features include the use of piano, which recalls ABBA, specifically “Dancing Queen.” Also, keyed in on the 70s sound are the use of strings, giving “Everything Now” that high-flying vibe.  The energy of the vocals and production truly makes “Everything Now” infectious to the nth degree.

So, what’s the modus operandi of “Everything Now”? Honestly, it’s literally everything now.  Throughout the song, the phrase means different things and can be both good or bad.  A perfect example occurs in the first verse, where the listener can determine the connotation:

“Every inch of space in your head / Is filled with the things that you read / I guess you’ve got everything now / And every film that you’ve ever seen / Fills the spaces up in your dreams.”

Final Thoughts 

So, is “Everything Now” hit or miss? “Everything Now” is definitely a hit.  This is the crème de la crème of the Arcade Fire catalogue.  A superb way to return after a four-year hiatus.

Arcade Fire • Everything Now • Columbia • Release: 7.28.17

Photo Credit: Columbia