Give It All Up Review

I don’t know that I have completely figured out what exactly I think about this song, which is not necessarily a bad thing. Clearly, the star or of the focus of the song, in my opinion, is the vocals. First of all, it feels like Simon is sitting on top of the instrumentation, that they rise to the top in a way. Then, of course, this song features the vocals of Tove Lo. I have to admit that I was not at all familiar with her but I dig her vocals on this one, particularly during the verse that she owns. That is not to say that they are not great everywhere but that part really shines to me. Similarly, I love the blending of vocals between both Simon and Tove Lo. I feel like that is extremely fitting due to the subject matter of the song, which seems to tell the tale of a relationship that might feel as if it has run its course or “running out of road” to quote the song. Yet, the people in the relationship are not giving up. That being said, I appreciate the lyrics do not go into details about this potential end or to the cause of it. That is when Duran’s lyrics are the best, when people can interject their own stories and experiences here. Anyway, it is fitting that there are two sets of vocals as it feels like the focus is a relationship.

Musically wise, I’m more puzzled. I remember the first time I heard the song. It really reminded me of that early 80s, synth pop type sound. I’m not sure it is exactly or completely that but there still is a slight vibe of that, to me. Yet, at the same time, the song still feels modern and definitely one that is hard to sit still for. This, of course, reminds me of so many of the interviews I have seen/read about this album along with so many other reviews, which comment on the fact that Duran embraced both their 80s selves here while also staying relevant and up-to-date. This song feels like the perfect combination of that.

Overall, it is a quality song, but I’m not sure that it is a master level song. Much like All of You, it is a fun one that I don’t have to think too much to enjoy. I question the choice in putting Simon’s vocals above the instrumentation. I wonder what it would sound like if it had been mixed differently. I also want to note that it has a pretty interesting beginning and end. The end, specifically, is super cool, especially when listening to the album as a whole as it flows well into Anniversary. On that note, what do you think of the song? Feel free to send a blog post my way sharing your thoughts!

4 cocktails rating
Four cocktails

By Daily Duranie

Once upon a time, there were two Duran Duran fans. One named Amanda, the other named Rhonda. Over many vodka tonics, they would laugh about the idea of one day writing a book about their fan experiences. While that manuscript is still being composed...Rhonda thought they should write a blog. (What was she THINKING?!) Lo and behold: The Daily Duranie was born.

2 comments

  1. I absolutely love this song. If Duran Duran didn’t have a 40 year history and I heard this song, I would want know more about their music. It has single written all over it. It’s very easy to listen to regardless of whether you’re a Duran Duran fan or not. When a non-fan asks me about the new album, this is the song I play for them.

  2. I love this song! It might be my second favorite, as it not only has some of Simon’s best poetry, but it makes me want to move with it. I adored it when they premiered it even though we know it was not complete. I like Tove Lo’s voice, and love how she and Simon sing around each other. It’s a real musical conversation. To my surprise, many of Duran’s new songs were being played on whatever streaming service my boss put on for us while working overnight.In fact the service played stuff from almost all of their albums, even ones some fans dismiss. But the new stuff filled me with joy because the industry is realizing this is not a nostalgia band.

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