Album: All the Feels
Artist: Fitz and the Tantrums
Genre: #Pop
Let’s start with a quick caveat. As a metalhead and only previously knowing “Handclap,” I wasn’t expecting anything spectacular from this new Fitz and the Tantrums album. That being said, I do feel that I can provide a quality, unbiased take on this new record.
I started with the lead single, “I Just Wanna Shine.” What first struck me was that the production was top notch and how much it reminded me of Cage the Elephant, a la Tell Me I’m Pretty. Layered instrumentation and interesting production choices obfuscate what is essentially a very basic pop song. Uplifting lyrics and some great melodies really make this song a true banger, despite it not being the most groundbreaking thing out there. Definitely the best song on the album.
The final song “Livin’ for the Weekend” is a strong closer for the album. The melody feels oddly familiar and it is very groovy. It sounds overall like a song Panic! At the Disco would do, which is not a bad thing. Second best song on the album imo.
Throughout the album the band nods to soul roots with cool piano samples and catchy horn lines. While I wouldn’t consider the album’s sound electronic, it has a lot of samples and I don’t think I heard any real drums. I would have liked a bit more guitar/acoustic instruments but that is mainly my personal taste. Vocals are a strong point of the album, mixing pseudo spoken lines with high poppy melodies and very singable choruses. I am sure there is some autotune in there, but it is never too obvious.
I didn’t take much time to analyze the lyrical content of the album but from what I heard it was standard pop. Once again, nothing super original here but this isn’t a huge issue. Lyrics in pop songs aren’t required to be intellectual, but it would have been interesting to see some deviation from the norm.
Overall, this album isn’t particularly amazing but it is enjoyable. Catchy tunes abound and the album flows well. I don’t think Fitz and the Tantrums were trying to produce a groundbreaking album, and that’s ok. The songs are well done, if a little uninspired at times. If you want a fun, easy pop album to jam out to, look no further.
Reviewer Name: Nate Smith
Date of Review: 10/18/19