This review covers the dance pop track Backstreet Boys – Everybody (Backstreets Back).
This track was released in 1997 on the album Backstreets Back.
The track starts off with a pitchbent element and a drum kit. After that, some percussion elements take over along with a few orchestral hits. Backup vocals make a brief appearance as well.
From there, the track then drops out and the vocals come in with a synth string element. A 303 synth makes an appearance as the vocals come in more fully. From there, the vocals take the track into the first verse. This is backed by a drum kit and bassline. Some backup vocals make an appearance as well.
After that, the vocals take the track into the main chorus. This is backed by a synth melody. From there, the vocals take the track into the next verse. It doesn’t take long before the vocals take the track back into the bridge and main chorus again. The synth melody returns. A brief instrumental section follows with the pitchbent element. This contains some vocal samples.
From there, the vocals take the track into the main chorus again. The backup vocals are altered in this part. Some synths then leads the track out.
The synths are actually quite decent. With the main synth melody switching interchangeably with the bassline, it gives this track a nice sense of progression.
The voice samples, however, I’m not entirely sure about. I’m not convinced they really add much because it somehow makes the track a bit cringe-worthy. On the other hand, they don’t hurt the track all that much because they do give the track a bit of variety. So, I’m honestly split on that.
Meanwhile, the vocals are alright. They aren’t particularly bad because of the variety for the most part. They aren’t necessarily amazing either. Ultimately, I’d say they are OK all around.
What absolutely kills the quality in the track, however, is the lyrics. The problem here is two-fold. First of all, there are so many cliches, it really makes the track have that nails on chalkboard effect. Secondly, all it is is excessive self promotion which really rubs salt on the wound. The only good this does is energize existing fans. For anyone else listening to the track, it easily rubs people the wrong way. As such, what positive elements there are in this track is overshadowed by these faults.
Overall, this track has some interesting synths that give the track a sense of progression. The voice samples are OK, but are a divisive element for me. The vocals are OK. Unfortunately, the lyrics are terrible because of that excessive self-promotion and cliches thrown about. A a result, I will cal this track passable, but not a track I would recommend.
Score
5/10
Drew Wilson on Twitter: @icecube85 and Facebook.
