Having spent the past few years exploring and experimenting with new genres, 5 Seconds of Summer have used their success as a springboard to push their sound in new directions, continuously taking bold steps into new territories both collectively and through their individual ventures. Now, more than a decade after bursting onto the music scene, their latest record, ‘Everyone’s A Star!’ reclaims the origins of their pop-punk identity; though it is not a comeback in the traditional sense, it certainly carries the energy and conviction of one.

From spoken word and emotionally charged chorus’, to rave-like adrenaline-filled beats, the Sydney-born group’s sixth studio record captures the sense of a newfound spark within the band. Leaning into early 2000s alt rock and pop, drawing inspiration from the likes of Gorillaz, The Prodigy, and Fontaines D.C., the album serves as a confident, often ironic reflection on their time in the spotlight.

On the aptly-titled ‘Boyband’, 5 Seconds of Summer unpack their youth, taking light at labels intended to insult them at the time and reclaiming it today. Driven by a retro synth and grooving bass, the lyrics critique parasocial relationships and encapsulates the pressures and contradictions of growing up in the public eye. Landing with impact, lines like “imaginary boyfriend,” “make that monkey dance,” “love me ’til I get it wrong,” and “make me the flavour of the week,” transform those moments of scrutiny into sharp, self-aware commentary – a celebration of the band turning past criticism into creative empowerment.

Keeping the momentum of the record so far, ’No.1 Obsession’ immediately pulls the audience into its high energy pulse. Backed by pounding drums and shimmering arpeggiated synths, the opening line, “I know that boys don’t cry but I got teary eyes,” blends an ‘80s post-punk sensibility with a modern pop edge, evoking a vibe somewhere between The Cure and The 1975. Hemmings’ falsetto is effortless, while the punchy chorus and layered backing vocals make it irresistibly catchy. Beneath its toe-tapping surface, the lyrics reveal vulnerability: desires for affection and recognition are framed in lines like “take me to heaven, kill the depression, make me your number one obsession” and “shine a light on all my darkest parts,” reflecting the highs and lows of fame, and the universal need to be truly seen.

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Standout tracks ‘Evolve’ and ‘The Rocks’ perfectly capture the essence of ‘Everyone’s A Star!’, highlighting the records themes of growth, reflection, and the band’s renewed sonic ambition. Rhythmically charged, ‘Evolve’ delves into hedonistic impulses, punctuated by Damon Albarn-inspired distorted vocals and a Black Mirror-esque spoken-word bridge. The band largely pull off a sense of nonchalance while exploring such self-destructive habits, unashamedly detailing the darker thoughts that can come with being in the industry. In contrast, ‘The Rocks’ leans into the same 2000s punk-infused energy found elsewhere throughout the record, pairing gritty grooves with incisive lyrics that examine the pitfalls of fame. Together, the songs balance reckless abandon with sharp introspection, highlighting 5 Seconds of Summers growth and their ability to merge visceral energy with thoughtful commentary.

Elsewhere, on tracks such as ‘I’m Scared I’ll Never Sleep’ and ‘Ghost’, the band show they aren’t afraid of personal introspection. ‘I’m Scared I’ll Never Sleep’ is a tender alt-pop gem, blending the confessional intimacy of the bands old-school B-sides with echoes of The 1975. Hemmings’ pained vocals, punctuated by a haunting ‘talking’ motif, capture the ache of yearning and self-reflection, making it a heart-wrenching highlight. Meanwhile, ‘Ghost’, a collaboration between Hemmings and his wife, leans into sparse, moody textures, amplifying its lyrical weight. Lines like “you and I are haunted by a similar ghost” reveal a raw exploration of anxiety, confirming the band’s mastery of understated, devastating balladry. Together, the two tracks highlight 5 Seconds of Summers ability to balance vulnerability and sonic sophistication, proving their growth beyond their pop-punk roots.

‘Everyone’s A Star!’ sees 5 Seconds of Summer fully owning their spotlight, turning past criticism into a playful, self-aware celebration of who they are. By leaning into the labels and expectations they once resisted, the band have crafted their most assured record yet, blending the highs and lows of fame with their signature pop-punk energy. Capturing the contradictions of youth under scrutiny – striving to be liked, admired, and authentic all at once – ‘Everyone’s A Star!’ never loses its sense of fun. The album feels like their debut record, but grown up, bolder, and fully in command of its sound.

8/10

Words: Shannon Garner

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