OneRepublic returns with slickly produced single, “Kids.” “Kids” is enjoyable by all means, though not game-changing or transcendent.

OneRepublic returns with a new single, “Kids.” Thematically, “Kids” reminisces on the past, but also embraces the present and future.  Ultimately, there are plenty of pros about the pop collective’s most recent offering.  

“Kids” features slick production work.  This comes as no surprise from frontman/producer extraordinaire, Ryan Tedder. There are plenty of thoughtful touches, such as the drum riff before the verse, signaling separation between sections. The use of rhythm guitar as accompaniment during the verses is a pro, coupled with pads.  “Kids” successfully blends electro and urban-pop brilliantly.

Vocally, the crowning achievement is the falsetto.  During the chorus, it soars. Speaking of the chorus, it is a selling point – definitely a highlight!

“I refuse to look back thinking days were better / just because they’re younger days / I don’t know what’s ‘round the corner / way I feel right now I swear we’ll never change / back when we were kids / swore we would never die / you and me were kids / swear that we’ll never die”

Final Thoughts 

All in all, “Kids” is pleasant. The record features a bright, shimmering sound. Slickly produced, the ear candy is abundant. Among the highlights is a catchy chorus. To reiterate, “Kids” is pleasant, not transcendent or game changing. Still, it’s #winning.

OneRepublic • Oh My My • Interscope • Release: 10.7.16

Photo Credit: Interscope