The last No Doubt single was released NINE YEARS ago.
Think of all the crazy shit featuring the initials “N.D.” that has happened since then! Highlights include: N-Dubz, Nadine Dorries and, erm...Nickelback...?
OK, the last one was wrong. Seriously though, what was the deal with those guys?
Regardless, it is clear that the world needs a No Doubt comeback. And, thankfully, the Universe has delivered.
"Settle Down" is the new single from the Anaheim ska-pop-rockers and, oh my gosh, it is good. The video premiered on 16 July and the track is now available to download from iTunes.
It neatly picks up from their last studio album, Rock Steady, with a distinctly dancehall sound and chant-along chorus. If you loved No Doubt’s early ska recordings then this might be a bit more of a challenge; seriously though, stick with it and it will grow on you.
Lyrically, Gwen is on fine form. She’s “hella positive” and confident that “nothing’s going to knock this girl down”. Oh yeah, she’s also pretty rough and tough so don’t mess with her, seriously.
The video is a pure No Doubt fan-fest, with references to the band’s Tragic Kingdom heyday. There are some lovely touches, such as when Tony Kanal holds the orange aloft à la "Don’t Speak" and when the whole band meet in a car park and hug. I freaked out at the sight of drummer Adrian Young wearing his trademark eyeliner and mohawk whilst driving a truck. Total nostalgia overload.
A minor criticism would be that it features some pretty blatant product placement, but hey! Someone’s got to pay Stefani’s red lipstick, peroxide and heavily-adorned trouser bills.
It would be impossible to talk about "Settle Down" with out a quick discussion of the awesomeness of Gwen Stefani. She may have ditched the cargo pants for something slightly skinnier and altogether more couture but she is still one bad-ass performer. She can wear a plain black tank-top and skank in a club like a freakin’ demon.
Far from settling down, it seems as if No Doubt are gearing up for a mega-comeback. Thanks for that, Universe. Thanks.