The Chainsmokers continue to be prolific dropping yet another new single in 2018, “Beach House,” named after the indie-pop duo.

The Chainsmokers have remained busy throughout 2018 – understatement.  There have been no shortage of singles that have arrived at the hands of Alex Pall and Andrew Taggart.  Like another prolific singles artist in 2018 (looking at you ZAYN), the resulting music has been a mixed bag.  Some singles have been notable enough, while others have been forgettable.  The latest offering from The Chainsmokers, “Beach House,” is respectable, but not particularly distinct or earth shattering.

Something to note prior to digging into analysis of “Beach House.” The single is literally named after the indie-pop duo Beach House, including a shout out on the first verse:

“Woke up on the west side

Listening to Beach House, taking my time.”

Apparently, Beach House has no comment regarding the affection and shout out… Anyways, backtracking, Drew Taggart handles vocal duties. He sounds okay, but much of his performance is ‘nothing to write home about’ you might say.  Thematically, “Beach House” is more blasé, finding The Chainsmokers exploring the familiar – relationships, sex, etc. Despite the predictability, “Beach House” has some notable moments, including the use of acoustic guitar on the pre-chorus section. The following chorus serves up a timbral contrast, incorporating electronic instruments – a more dance-oriented palette.

“Oh, darling of mine

Where have you been?

I feel so alive

With you in my bed

Oh, darling of mine

Please don’t let go

Just tell me you feel this

Tell me you know

Oh, darling of mine.”

Taggart repeats the final line of the chorus, “Oh, darling of mine” during the first ‘drop’ section.  The lyrics expand following the second chorus (“Oh, darling of mine / Where have you been?”) Eliminating some predictability is the harmonic contrast during the bridge (or third verse). The melodic line is much more rhythmic, though not quite as smooth-flowing compared to the preceding verses. Also, worth noting is an ambitious sustained note by Taggart towards the end of “Beach House” – we definitely haven’t heard that from him previously.

Final Thoughts

So, how does “Beach House” stack up ultimately? Good, but again, not particularly distinct or earth shattering.  At this point, The Chainsmokers would need to do something completely uncharacteristic to raise eyebrows.

The Chainsmokers » Beach House [Single] » Disruptor / Columbia » Release: 11.16.18

Photo Credits: Disruptor / Columbia