It’s common for people to have many different playlists for activities such as working out, doing homework, walking to class, pre-gaming and the list goes on. For me, the new Chainsmoker’s song “Something Just Like This” fell into all of the above playlists. Best known for their song, “Closer,” which, according to Forbes, is the fourth longest-running No. 1 hit and their single “Paris,” the Chainsmokers have quickly produced a new EDM (Electronic Dance Music) single that is also bound to join top charts.
A simple storyline about a guy who believes he has to have superhuman qualities in order to win the heart of a girl is the message of the song — a message everyone can relate to. The lyrics say, “I’ve been reading books of old, the legends and the myths, Achilles and his gold, Hercules and his gifts, Spiderman’s control and Batman with his fists, and clearly I don’t see myself upon that list.” Insecure about what he brings to the table, the singer reflects on what qualities these superheroes have and believes that without them, he won’t be able to make the girl happy.
Not surprisingly, the girl reassures the singer that he is perfect for her, even without superpowers. “She said, where’d you wanna go? How much you wanna risk? I’m not looking for somebody with some superhuman gifts. Some superhero, some fairytale bliss, just something I can turn to, somebody I can kiss.” At the end of the day, the guy is perfect in her eyes regardless of how strong, smart or handsome he thinks he is. The song’s straight-forward message allows listeners to better appreciate the other qualities of it such as the vocal and musical aspects.
Accompanying the Chainsmokers (Alex Pall and Drew Taggart) is Coldplay singer Chris Martin. Martin dominates the song with his incredible vocal range, where he begins in a low groove and then erupts into a yelling, hyped-up tone. The musicality of the piece mimics the great qualities of other Chainsmoker songs while also incorporating the talents of Martin — a combination that produces an unmatched dynamic.
Although the vocal talents of the song are commendable, credit is also due to the instrumentalists. Throughout the piece, the guitar work is executed flawlessly and is greatly emphasized during the climax of the song — kudos to Jonny Buckland. The music flows well with Martin’s vocals due to the softness they emit when he sings low and the party vibe they rise to as he transitions to belting the lyrics.
The Chainsmokers are a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. Through “Closer,” “Paris” and “Something Just Like This,” they have established their prominence in the pop and EDM scene, and the group shows promising signs of more hits to come. “Something Just Like This” will be included in their album “Memories: Do Not Open,” which will be released on April 7. Additionally, students should mark their calendar for Thursday, April 20, as the Chainsmokers will be performing at Webster Bank Arena at 7 p.m.
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