Single Review: Grouplove – “Ways to Go”

I feel like it’s always a hit or miss when it comes to combining indie and dance beats. Most are good, but the rest of them kind of sound like cheesy ’80s songs that didn’t make the cut in the latest John Hughes teen flick. In the case of Grouplove‘s new song off their upcoming album, Spreading Rumours, “Ways to Go” embodies the quirky and upbeat sounds they are recognized for.

When I first heard that Grouplove finally released their new single I honestly had no idea what to expect. Was it going to be extremely similar to “Tongue Tied” or “Colours?” Was it going to be a song taken into a completely different music direction? I figured the only way to mentally prepare myself was to just listen to it with the assumption that I would really like it.

Honestly, I had no idea how I actually felt about “Ways to Go.” It’s definitely different and has a more energetic, dance-y vibe going on than the past songs they’ve put out. Keyboards paired with funky, upbeat guitars are usually incorporated and this song is no different (it even has a spacey, floaty feel towards the end). The transition from mellow to a slightly faster pace between each chorus makes for a great song to listen to on a drive along the beach. I also love the fact that the only female in the band, Hannah Hooper, got more of her vocals in this track because I personally think her voice and lead singer Christian Zucconi’s high-pitched-with-a-little-grittyness-mixed-in voice truly complement each other. The peppy, repetitive lyrics, especially in the chorus of “I’ve got a little bit longer/ I’ve got a ways to go,” is catchy, fun and similarly written like “Tongue Tied.” After a few listens, “Ways to Go” finally grew on me and made me excited for what the new album has to offer.

Sure, their first single is a little more poppy than all of the songs on 2011’s Never Trust a Happy Song, but there shouldn’t be fear a that Grouplove is going to be the next indie band that everyone and their moms obsess over when they only know one song. I very much enjoy their music and “Ways to Go” seems to give a good preview of what fans might be looking at when they grab their copies of Spreading Rumours in September. It’s definitely one of the most perfect songs to be released during the summer season.

Follow Heather on Twitter and Instagram!