Calm

Calm- Album Overview

5 Seconds of Summer's fourth studio album, "Calm," was released on March 27, 2020, under the band’s own label, BMG. This album marks a significant evolution in their sound, blending pop-rock with a more mature pop sensibility, and showcases their growth as musicians and songwriters. Recorded in Los Angeles, "Calm" features collaborations with notable producers such as Andrew Wells, who has worked with artists like P!nk and Katy Perry, and the songwriting contributions of Julia Michaels and JP Saxe, among others. The album includes singles such as "Easier," "Teeth," and "Wildflower," each showcasing a distinct blend of electronic elements with their signature pop-rock roots. "Easier" debuted in 2019, offering a darker, more introspective take on relationships, while "Teeth" incorporates a heavier, industrial sound that diverges from their earlier work. "Wildflower" serves as a more uplifting track, encapsulating themes of hope and resilience. Musically, "Calm" reflects a significant cultural moment, as it was released during a global pandemic, resonating with themes of introspection and emotional struggle. The band’s ability to merge personal narratives with universal themes has solidified their place in the modern pop landscape, making "Calm" not just an evolution of their sound, but also a relevant response to contemporary issues.

Review

"Calm" presents a confident departure from 5 Seconds of Summer's earlier, more youthful sound. The album is characterized by its polished production and lyrical depth, revealing a band that has matured both personally and artistically. The opening track, "Red Desert," sets the tone with its atmospheric soundscapes, while "Easier" delves into the complexities of modern relationships with poignant honesty. Lyrically, the album explores themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, which resonate deeply, particularly in the context of the tumultuous times during its release. The production is lush and layered, blending elements of pop, rock, and electronic music seamlessly. Although some tracks venture into more experimental territory, they maintain the catchy hooks that fans have come to expect. However, while the album showcases a commendable artistic vision, there are moments where the experimentation feels slightly uneven, occasionally overshadowed by the commercial pop sensibilities. Nonetheless, the overall execution is strong, solidifying 5 Seconds of Summer's ability to evolve while retaining their core identity.

Highlights

• Strong lyrical themes of introspection and growth.
• Successful blending of various musical styles, from pop to electronic elements.
• Standout singles like "Easier" and "Teeth" that showcase their maturity.

Weak points

• Some tracks may feel inconsistent in tone and experimentation.
• Occasional reliance on pop clichés that could detract from their unique sound.
• May not resonate as strongly with fans of their earlier pop-punk style.

Overall evaluation

"Calm" represents a significant step for 5 Seconds of Summer, showcasing their evolution as artists while addressing contemporary themes relevant to their audience. While it has its inconsistencies, the album ultimately stands as a strong testament to their growth. Personal rating: 7.5/10