Up and coming Los Angeles boy band In Real Life shows promise on single “Tattoo (How ‘Bout You).” It doesn’t reinvent the boy band or pop, but there’s clearly potential.

While the boy band has faded a bit as of late, it’s certainly not dead. Rising groups including PRETTYMUCH and Why Don’t We are keeping the boys in it.  Sigh. Brady Tutton, Chance Perez, Drew Ramos, Michael Conor, and Sergio Calderon make up up-and-coming boy band, In Real Life, who won the show Boy Band.  In Real Life are based in Los Angeles, California, and signed to Hollywood Records.  Take one look at these good-looking dudes, and history has repeated itself all over again, as it always does.  Take one listen on single “Tattoo (How ‘Bout You),” and its exactly what you expect courtesy of a boy band.

“Tattoo (How ‘Bout You)” opens subtly, with relatively restrained, yet rhythmic production. The sound is somewhat predictable, but ultimately, it’s a good start for In Real Life.  The vocals are clear, while the vocal production is solid.  As the record progresses, the listener is blessed with more oomph.

The pre-chorus is the first section of the song that really stands out, with increased intensity.  Most notable about the particular section is the triplet-driven melodic line.  This is a swagger move, taking cues from the rhythm that has become a mainstay in hip-hop as of late – or at least much of last year. Speaking of hip-hop, there’s also a rap verse, cementing the modern-pop and eclectic, ‘fresh’ sound of the boy band a la 2018.  Naturally, the chorus is infectious, groovy, and ultimately, successful.

Final Thoughts 

All in all, In Real Life shows promise on “Tattoo (How ‘Bout You).”  This isn’t the second coming, nor a bold reinvention of the boy band or pop, but the quintet is definitely worth checking out.

In Real Life • Tattoo (How ‘Bout You) – Single • Hollywood • Release: 2.2.18

Photo Credit: Hollywood