Years after their last colabortive effort, No Doubt is FINALLY back with Push and Shove. The album keeps the groups classic sound while still being relevant. The 11 track record starts with the first single, “Settle Down”. The eclectic track has Bollywood and reggae elements that work for the band’s fun and quirky image. ”One More Summer” sounds less like classic No Doubt and more like The Killers circa their debut, with a space-age sounding production and a mainstream/light rock guitar throughout. Gwen’s voice covers the song about missing a companion well.
The fourth track second single goes back into the horns and island sound of the band, but the title track is unique in that the chorus breaks into a rock drum break that sounds like acoustic dubstep, and it works. The light rock track “Easy” is my favorite on the album. Although the break adds reggae tones, the rest of the song is breezy and melodic. ”Undercover” goes in a light alternative direction that still retains pop elements.
There’s a break from assorted sounds with “Undone”, an acoustic song that nearly has a country vibe. Gwen’s voice leads the song well as she begs a lover to stay. “Heaven” and the end track “Dreaming the Same Dream” go back to the ’80s synth tones and rhythmic drum pattern and a catchy hook.
Push and Shove mostly retains the reggae and synth sounds of No Doubt, but the band isn’t afraid to drum, strum, and sing songs that are more acoustic and mainstream. It’s a record long time fans and new ones can appreciate. It’s been worth the wait.