Dan + Shay, I Should Probably Go to Bed | Track Review

Dan + Shay return with an enjoyable country-pop record with “I Should Probably Go to Bed,” though it could use more depth and development. 

Grammy-winning country duo Dan + Shay have seen their profile elevated a lot over the past couple of years.  Their self-titled third studio album, released in 2018, was ‘kind of a big deal.’  What stands out about the duo are the high-flying vocals and over course, vocal harmonies. High-flying vocals and vocal harmonies are definitely a thing on their new single, “I Should Probably Go to Bed.”

“I Should Probably Go to Bed” certainly many of the cues that we’ve come to expect from Dan + Shay – no need to belabor that point.  What’s different is the fact that this song doesn’t sound very country in the least.  While this is a duo that walks that fine line of country and pop, “I Should Probably Go to Bed” sounds more likely to get pop recognition than country.  Sure, there are a few moments that have a subtle country vibe but if I didn’t know this were a country duo beforehand, I’d assume it was a pop group.  There’s nothing wrong with it but it may not tickle everyone’s fancy.

As far as the song, it dabbles in matters of the heart – always a welcome topic.  That said, listening to it, lyrically, I feel like it could use a bit more development.  Sure, we get the gist that this guy has been on the struggle bus when it comes to heartbreak, he gets out and finds out his ex- is returning to town, and he decides he should ‘go to bed,’ but we could use a bit more depth.

Final Thoughts 

All in all, “I Should Probably Go to Bed” is enjoyable, but not the second coming.  Personally, I enjoy the vocals and even some of the pop elements more than the songwriting.  While I feel there’s potential for a compelling narrative, I think that Dan + Shay and their fellow writers come up just a wee bit short.  Again, enjoyable but not game changing.

Dan + Shay • “I Should Probably Go to Bed” • Warner Music Nashville • Release: 7.31.20

Photo Credit: Warner Music Nashville