Why I Reacted To This Song
Foo Fighters have been a constant in my life and “Everlong” is the song that defines them. It’s one of those tracks that never loses its grip. The energy, the melody and the emotion. It all comes together perfectly. Hard to ignore a song this good.
About This Song
“Everlong” was released in 1997 on Foo Fighters’ second album The Colour and the Shape. Dave Grohl wrote it during a period of personal upheaval. It shows the song carries a rawness and urgency that’s hard to fake. It became the band’s signature track and is widely regarded as one of the dominant alternative rock songs ever recorded. The music video, directed by Michel Gondry.
First Impressions
The opening guitar riff is instantly recognizable. There’s a tension to it that builds right up until the chorus explodes and when it does, it’s one of the most satisfying moments in rock music. Dave Grohl’s voice shifts from restrained to all-out and it earns every bit of that release.
My Reaction
“Everlong” is close to perfect. The dynamics are extraordinary, the quiet verses make the chorus hit that much harder. Grohl’s vocal performance is raw and desperate in the best way. The drumming drives the whole thing forward with relentless momentum. This is a song about longing and it sounds exactly like that feeling. If you’ve never heard it, stop what you’re doing. If you have, you already know.
Rating
88/100