5 Seconds of Summer’s EVERYONE’S A STAR! demonstrates they are more than just a typical boyband
If you’ve landed on this piece, you likely fall into one of two camps: doubting my intentions or nodding along in agreement. Let’s give each other a chance. My initiation into the 5 Seconds of Summer fan club occurred in 2011 when their cover of “Teenage Dirtbag” took the internet by storm. Amidst the One Direction craze at its peak, these four youthful Aussies brought something unique to the table that captivated me instantly. The harmonies, albeit a bit rough in retrospect, hit me with a jolt. Fast forward to today, and my devotion remains unwavering, not due to nostalgia but because their music stands the test of time.
They burst onto the scene in 2014 with their self-titled debut, a game-changer for Australian pop music that steered many down the pop-punk route, notwithstanding its actual genre classification. This album exuded heart and exuberance, creating indelible tunes like “She Looks So Perfect” and “Amnesia” that continue to linger in our minds. The subsequent releases only raised the bar, metamorphosing with each record, mirroring the evolution of their audience.
The trajectory took a poignant turn with Sounds Good Feels Good in 2015, delving deeper into emotional territories while still anchored in pop sensibilities. Youngblood in 2018 marked a pivotal moment, thrusting the band into a realm where they demanded global recognition distinct from their One Direction days. Calm in 2020 showcased a darker and bolder side, hinting at an artistic evolution unparalleled in their discography. The introspective 5SOS5 in 2022 revealed a more mature yet experimental facet, reflective of a decade’s worth of growth and refinement.
As we stand on the brink of the release of EVERYONE’S A STAR! in 2025, the anticipation is palpable. This forthcoming album promises to be their most audacious endeavor yet, encapsulating a sound that transcends previous boundaries. The opening track, “Everyone’s A Star!”, along with lead singles “NOT OK”, “boyband”, and “Telephone Busy”, lays the foundation for a concept album tackling themes of fame and embracing their boyband identity unapologetically. Embracing a Gorillaz-inspired sound, these tracks are vibrant, infectious, and layered with depth.
“I’m Scared I’ll Never Sleep” veers into slightly different territory, offering a poignant introspection that showcases a brilliant blend of musicality and vulnerability. The track features a standout moment with Hood’s spoken-word segment, exuding a raw, authentic essence that resonates deeply. “istillfeelthesame” follows suit, maintaining a similar emotional resonance that underscores the band’s artistic maturity.
Now, with each member exploring solo ventures, skepticism may cloud the future of 5SOS. However, reassurances from the band assure us of their steadfast commitment to their collective journey. As we await the unveiling of EVERYONE’S A STAR!, it becomes evident that 5 Seconds of Summer isn’t just the greatest boyband of our generation but one of the most formidable Australian bands to grace the music scene—an assertion substantiated by their unwavering artistic evolution and musical prowess.