International band For You released its debut album “The Way It Is Now” Jan. 17, almost two years after the release of its debut single, “Tailspin” Jan. 15, 2023. “The Way It Is Now” blends elements of pop and rock to curate an album with a distinct sound.
Ed Westwick, an actor most known for his role as Chuck Bass in the hit T.V. show “Gossip Girl,” is the lead vocalist for the band and is supported by guitarist Michael Mathern, drummer Frank Giampietro and producer and instrumentalist Hans Kristian Nordin.
“The Way It Is Now” opens with “I Feel Bulletproof,” which sets the scene for the album and welcomes listeners who may be unfamiliar with For You’s moody tracks. “Here Comes Trouble” emulates a dangerous energy, telling a story of a cycle of bad choices in a relationship.
“Got Me Feelin’ Like” continues the sultry sounds synonymous with For You’s tracks. “Break The Skin” expresses the desire to escape into a relationship and enjoy a break from the rest of the world. “Follow You There” leads the transition into the second half of the album with a beat and lyrics slightly lighter than the previous tracks. “Red Flags” serves as a reminder to listeners to let go of toxic relationships while simultaneously keeping with the album’s voluptuous theme.
“Just Stay For The Night,” opposite of the lyrics in “Red Flags,” captures the feeling of needing to be with and keep someone around for even a small moment. The track is the band’s second most streamed song. Although the song trails behind “Here Comes Trouble” in streams, it is a key song in For You’s discography.
“Government Knows” may be the shortest song in the album’s tracklist, but what it lacks in length, it makes up for in all other aspects. The guitar feature in this track elevates the album as a whole and keeps listeners interested and engaged.
“Take My Hand” is the standout song of the album, with a sound noticeably different from the rest of the tracks. The beat is akin to an early 2000s pop song and worthy of feature in a coming-of-age teen drama. The nostalgic opening tune envelopes listeners and gives them a different side of For You before transitioning into the signature rock sound featured throughout the album. “Take My Hand” closes the album in a way that leaves listeners perfectly poised for their next main character moment.
Each song has the ability to stand on its own; however, as a whole, the album shines and is a gift to each of For You’s monthly listeners. For new listeners, the album gives a great introduction to For You and its music. “The Way It Is Now” leaves much to look forward to in For You’s musical journey.
