Review: “People” - The 1975

Whenever I write about this band, I feel as though I never quite know what to expect. Each album shows them growing and progressing as a band, incorporating new ideas and sounds that redefine the definition of “The 1975”. I remember with each lead single(s) from their second and third albums, I had to reevaluate what I was anticipating in terms of their sound and vibe. “Love Me” was this weird, almost alternative-pop modern twist on an Aerosmith sound, and “Give Yourself A Try” was a gritty guitar riff over electronic drums and auto tuned vocals. Each time, I had to take time to adjust and acclimate to the new direction the band was going.

“People” is 100% no exception to that trend.

Without a doubt this is the heaviest, most rock-sounding, balls-to-the-wall song the band has ever done. One of the first things I noticed about it, and texted to one of my friends who’s also a big fan of The 1975, is the striking similarity to My Chemical Romance. Not identical, but a very similar energy. Whereas MCR took things to the emo side, The 1975 continues to dive into the political spectrum with this song. In this way, it also reminded me of Grandson, whose modern rap-rock is highly politically charged and very reminiscent of Rage Against The Machine.

Especially when you listen to the intro to the album (the only other song currently out for the upcoming album), the political direction makes a lot of sense. It’s hard to not have a conversation end up in politics nowadays - everything is so volatile and polarizing. I really appreciate that the band is using their voice for a purpose, to drive change with their influence. Obviously, there are plenty of groups that do this, and all of them have different voices that people aren’t always going to agree with. But that’s something that’s wonderful about music, is the ability to create and share and resonate with the right people for you.

Overall, I’m quite excited about this release and what the rest of the album will bring next February (hopefully it releases on time, despite already being delayed). I don’t expect the whole album to sound like “People”, but I know the band is going to innovate and push their own boundaries. I’m looking forward to seeing what shape that will take.