In the pop world of good versus evil, No Doubt were always on the side of good. ‘Settle Down’, their new single and first release in 11 years will remind you why. In the context of pop, ‘Settle Down’ is as infectious as anything in the charts right now. But in spite of that enormous Gwen Stefani chorus, it still manages to sound clever and unique. We know they were always great at melding eclectic influences to stadium sized, bubblegum choruses. This time, the reggae vibe and nod to dub in the outro may well fly straight over the heads of their biggest audience. But like kids shows that include a couple of jokes for the parents, No Doubt are quick to remind us that there’s a craft to great pop music that is too often dismissed.
Have a listen then let us know if you agree. Push and Shove is out September 25.
