Fall Out Boy, The Last of the Real Ones | Track Review 🎵

Following a ‘botched’ promo campaign, Fall Out Boy push back M A N I A and release an improved third single, “The Last of the Real Ones.”

Uh-oh – trouble in paradise.  Following a botched promo campaign, Fall Out Boy seemed to be on the “struggle bus” with their M A N I A project.  Originally due on September 15, 2017, Fall Out Boy pushed the album back to January 19, 2018.  Smart move considering all indications suggested a lackadaisical response to a seemingly lackadaisical project.  While pushing the release date may end up being a Band-Aid, it gives the band a fighting chance to “right the ship.” Third single “The Last of the Real Ones,” for the most part, is a positive step forward.

“The Last of the Real Ones” kicks off with rhythmic piano.  Beyond the piano accompaniment, the production is superb.  Does this sound particularly emo or punk as far as the backdrop? To some extent, but there’s also ample pop.  Never fear though – there are guitars that take over the reins on the chorus. Besides the production, “The Last of the Real Ones” offers powerful, dynamic vocals courtesy of Patrick Stump.  He’s amped up early-on, as he kills the rhythmic melody that graces the record throughout.

The chorus is aggressive and hard-hitting – the expectation for a Fall Out Boy song.  Naturally, this is the selling point of “The Last of the Real Ones.” The chorus is catchy, thanks especially to repetition of the titular lyric. This doesn’t supersede or supplant their best choruses by any means, but after dropping a universal dud like “Young and Menace” was, this feels like the crème de la crème.

Final Thoughts

For the most part, “The Last of the Real Ones” is a positive step forward for Fall Out Boy.  The road to recovery from their aforementioned mishap is a long one that an album delay may not even be able to cure.  However, dropping M A N I A in the wintry January when nothing else comes out certainly helps its case.  Focusing on this joint, it’s enjoyable and fun.

Fall Out Boy • M A N I A • Island • Release: 1.19.18 

Photo Credit: Island