Grammy-winning dance/pop production duo The Chainsmokers return with a new single, “Side Effects,” featuring frequent collaborator, Emily Warren.

“Ooh, you’re all that I want / No good at giving you up / Come on and give me some love tonight.” Okay…whatever. The Chainsmokers are back again… very soon… after just releasing Sick Boy (EP) in April 2018.  Whatever… Anyways, Alex Pall and Drew Taggart drop a new single, “Side Effects,” with their frequent collaborator, Emily Warren.  If you were wondering if Drew sings on “Side Effects,” he doesn’t. After hearing so much of Taggart over the course of Sick Boy, that’s a blessing – no shade.  That said, is “Side Effects” a rank-up for the boys? Is this a “bop” or a “flop?” Read on brothers and sisters – read on.

“Side Effects” feels a bit abrupt and off-putting at the onset.  Yes, The Chainsmokers give the listeners a brief intro, but maybe more of a preface would’ve been more effective. Nonetheless, the duo spoils the listeners with a cool bass line. What can’t be denied is the power of the groove and danceable later of the record.  Another pro is the use of piano on the chorus. Gotta love them keys!

But, with the good comes the bad.  Maybe it’s not really bad in this case, but not necessarily a ‘selling point.’  As I listen to “Side Effects,” I find myself listening more to the music, as aforementioned, as opposed to Emily Warren’s singing or the lyrics.  Furthermore, the rapping on the bridge is sketchy as a four-letter word. While I see what The Chainsmokers/Warren were going for, it’s definitely imperfect.

Final Thoughts

So, I asked earlier if this is a “bop” or a “flop.”  The answer is somewhere in between.  “Side Effects” isn’t bad, but it’s not great either.  The bass line and groove aren’t quite enough to make it a surefire hit. Warren has her moments, but like the song itself, it’s okay, not stellar per se. Nothing game or life changing, but a mild success – really mild.

The Chainsmokers • Side Effects (Ft. Emily Warren) – Single • Disruptor / Columbia • Release: 7.27.18 

Photo Credit: Disruptor / Columbia