BOYNEXTDOOR have several distinct modes to their songwriting, and they’ve found the most success with a hyperactive indie-pop sound best characterized by last year’s blockbuster If I Say, I Love You. A few months ago, they were ddok ddok ddoking in their homeland and now they’re Boom Boom Booming in Japan. However, this single might as well be a direct sonic sequel to If I Say.
I really enjoy this sound for BOYNEXTDOOR, but it tends to take awhile to fully click with me. Boom Boom Boom‘s instrumental is just so busy and that can be a lot to take in upon the first few listens. At its best, it’s got a cool electro swing vibe that blends the group’s old-school musical sensibilities with modern touches. This occurs most noticeably in the song’s structure, which feels constantly in flux. We move from a fairly straightforward opening verse to a few rap breakdowns that upend Boom‘s trajectory. Again, this all takes time to settle and I anticipate that being the case here.
For now, I’m concerned with Boom Boom Boom‘s perceived aimlessness but heartened by its breakneck energy. The guys add so much personality to anything they perform and that helps situate this track in their well-developed world. But compared to past highlights within this realm, I can’t really tell if Boom‘s hooks are strong enough to stand the test of time.
Hooks
7
Production
8
Longevity
8
Bias
8
RATING
7.75