Bastille, Fake It | Track Review 🎵

Bastille exceeds expectations on second ‘Wild World’ promo single, “Fake It.” There is nothing  fake about the song – it’s legit.

“Fake It” opens with mysterious pads and a spoken word sample  excerpted from Social Seminar: Changing, according to Genius.

“And I don’t think that that’s a selfish want, I really don’t. I’m not saying that I have this capacity because it’s hard to develop that capacity on your own, when you’re being stopped at every turn.”

The sample is followed by incredible falsetto, which recurs throughout “Fake It.” A clear, subtle rhythmic groove adds stability. Interestingly, the groove has some hip-hop sensibility. The confirmation of urban-pop cues comes with the 808 that appears during the chorus.

https://youtu.be/JeiRRBs-dQE

Frontman Dan Smith delivers lovely vocals.  Arguably more important, is the narrative of “Fake It.” In an odd spot within his relationship, Smith – or the song’s protagonist – gets nothing out of it. Despite this, he’s not quite ready to end it, therefore willing to “fake it.” Ultimately, it’s a terrific topic of choice.

The chorus represents the song’s most epic moment.  It’s dynamic and beautifully executed.  Doesn’t hurt that it’s catchy either:

“Oh my lover, my lover, my love / we can never go back / we can only do our best to recreate / don’t turn over, turn over the page / we should rip it straight out / then let’s try our very best to fake it.”

Final Thoughts

Overall, “Fake It” is exceptionally produced.  Every detail is carefully thought out, truly making this single accomplished. Smith gives a superb vocal performance throughout. To reiterate, the chorus is epic. 

Bastille • Wild World • Virgin • Release: 9.9.16

Photo Credit: Virgin