When it comes to music I love, there tends to be two categories of songs. There are instant hits that capture my attention on first listen. Then, there are ‘stealth bombers’ that reveal their charms more gradually. Every single BOYNEXTDOOR song has fallen into the second category. In the long run, it doesn’t mean they’re any better or worse than an instant smash, but this tends to color the group’s overall rating on this blog. Pre-release single Dangerous has already followed suit, growing more addictive with each listen. I’m curious if this precedent will continue with new comeback Nice Guy.
On first listen, Nice Guy seems to lack the insidious hooks and/or emotional urgency that has characterized BOYNEXTDOOR’s strong singles run thus far. It’s a pleasant toe tapper with a fun, brassy beat. The chorus is catchy but underdeveloped — or maybe I’ve just become used to Earth, Wind & Fire‘s madcap energy. It’s probably unfair to compare the two, but Nice Guy definitely feels emptier than all of the group’s title tracks so far. It’s one idea repeated often, tied to an easy-listening vibe that dulls the guys’ edges.
On the plus side, this may pull in fans who weren’t convinced by BOYNEXTDOOR’s weirder side. Nice Guy‘s retro synth and warm production will fit on almost any playlist and the members’ distinct vocals offer just enough character to set the song apart from similar efforts by other artists. Still, this is easily BND’s slightest single yet — at least after a few listens. If the usual trend persists, I might be more excited about it in a week.
Hooks
7
Production
8
Longevity
8
Bias
8
RATING
7.75