Pop Blitz: 90's Revival Edition

This Fall, the big story is a 90's revival in the music world. Not only do we have artists that sound like they could've been at home back then (I'm looking at you, Carly Rae Jepsen), but we've got a slew of big 90's acts releasing new music--often their first in years. Here's what I think of a few of the singles. And while we're at it, I'd like to request the return of Shania Twain and Janet Jackson (at least in her 90's heydey).

No Doubt - Settle Down
I wrote about this song when it was first released and said that, while I liked it, it didn't strike me as being strong enough for such an anticipated single. I still think this (and its chart placement echoes my thoughts). The song's still great, but it's more of an album track than hit single. Even so, they're by far my most anticipated comeback on this list. B+

Green Day - Oh Love
Well, they never really went away, but it has been a few years. Unfortunately, I just don't think this is one of their best. It straddles the mid-ground between their older, punkier stuff and their newer, more ornate rock. Melody-wise, though, it's just a little repetitive and unsurprising for my tastes. B-

Matchbox Twenty - She's So Mean
They were a band known for making excellent radio hits, even if they didn't always have the critical respect behind them. This is no bad thing in my book, and this new single follows their template exactly. This might sound like a gripe, but in 2012 their sound is downright refreshing. A very pleasant surprise. A-

Alanis Morissette - Guardian
Alanis has never really reached the heights of her breakthrough album, Jagged Little Pill, since its release, though she has put out some good music. This is a nice little comeback and definitely in keeping with her better work. Plus, it's awesome to hear her distinctive voice again. B+

Pop Blitz: 90's Revival Edition - Your Choice!

No Doubt - Settle DownGreen Day - Oh LoveMatchbox Twenty - She's So MeanAlanis Morissette - Guardian

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No Doubt - Settle Down

"I'm trying to get a hold on this"

No Doubt's Tragic Kingdom, along with Savage Garden's debut, were the first two albums I owned. Both continue to be favorites. I was absolutely OBSESSED with No Doubt in high school and as I went onto college and life, they never let me down. So it's a great pleasure to post this song today, their first new single in nearly a decade. Their upcoming album, out in September, was one of those holy grail type records that it seemed would never actually be released. Now it's actually happening! So, given all of this excitement, is the single actually worth it? I think the answer's yes and no. I wish it was a little more Tragic Kingdom and less Rock Steady, and that it was more of a big, brash comeback statement kind of track. But, like some of their best songs, I think it's a bit of a grower. I listened to it this morning and wasn't really all that impressed. Then I listened to it a few more times in preparation for this post and I'm already liking it much better. More than the single, though, I need the album. I can't think of any other album I'm anticipating more this year.



(Music posted for evaluation purposes only. If you like what you hear, support the artists. Buy their music here. Follow me on twitter and facebook.