Up-and-coming pop collective DNCE release one final single, “Be Mean,” ahead of issuing its self-titled, full-length debut LP. 

After releasing beaucoup singles, pop collective DNCE has one final pre-release single in its system, “Be Mean.” From mega-hit “Cake By The Ocean” to “Be Mean,” the Joe Jonas-led collective have proven themselves to be serious hit makers.  “Be Mean” is no different, giving the band one final hurrah ahead of the album.

“Be Mean” is characterized by its excellent use of rhythmic guitar and a hard-hitting pop-soul groove. The sound exemplifies the pop-soul vein. There are a number of excellent production touches, including the aforementioned rhythmic guitar and groove, plush horn hits that arrive on the chorus.

In addition to excellent overall production, “Be Mean” features sound vocal production. All in all, Joe Jonas sounds exceptional.  Throughout its course, there are numerous highlighting lyrics.  Like many of DNCE’s music as of yet, those lyrics are drenched in innuendo – SEX!

“They say you like the torture honey / but don’t forget the whip / my left hand’s getting loose / but don’t let me slip…”

The pre-chorus serves as a great contrast to the verse and a brilliant lead into the chorus:

“If pain’s what you like / torture me all night.”

The catchy chorus is a selling point:

“Keep on burnin’ / love how you keep me hurting / so oo-ooh be mean, be mean to me / be mean to me / with that body, you got the right to get naughty / so ooh-ooh be mean, be mean to me / be mean to me / would you promise that you’ll always be mean, be mean to me…”

A nice, contrasting bridge section separates itself from verses and choruses:

“…Gladly I’ll take poise from your lips (from your lips) / Touch you when I burn my fingertips, ah, ah / I blame that to love, I must commit / if you want, then I’ll submit…”

Final Thoughts 

All in all, “Be Mean” is one of the better, if not best, promo singles from DNCE.  It is exceptionally well produced, soundly performed, and sensuously written.  DNCE have a knack for innuendo and “Be Mean” is a perfect example.

DNCE • DNCE • Republic • Release: 11.18.16  

Photo Credit: Republic