Powered by tireless tambourines, shredding guitars, and a ruthless bassline, “Calm Down” may seem like an inappropriate title for The Love Language’s latest single. The track blasts straight out of the gate with running-ragged drums, and from the first second onward it appears intent on allowing the listener to do anything but. Yet when the first chorus hits, Stuart McLamb (Mr. Love Language himself) satisfactorily belts, “You won’t let me calm down!” and all the pieces fall into place: “Calm Down” is, quite simply, not about calming down.
“Calm Down” is the opening track for Ruby Red, an album that marks McLamb’s third trip to the studio. Or should I stay studios: the record was recorded across the country with over two handfuls of aiding musicians, and the result — while a tad overblown and overindulgent — is a surprisingly cohesive listen that’s more tightly wound than McLamb’s previous efforts combined. And sure, Ruby Red feels less personal than The Love Language and Libraries, but what “Calm Down” has lost in heart it more than makes up for in matching the energetic rush of The Love Language’s not-to-be-missed live shows.
At its best, “Calm Down” is merely another step in the parade showcasing McLamb’s knack for writing ridiculously catchy verses and choruses. Hell, aside from his Merge labelmate Telekinesis, McLamb may be the most underrated pop-tune connoisseur in the indie game today. And “Calm Down” is certainly pop — though it’ll put a pounding in your pulse, and certainly won’t keep you calm.