The villain of the album. Critics hated this one. It’s frantic, punk-lite, and weirdly paced. But in 2017? It was a chaotic banger. Listening now, it feels like a fever dream.
Before 2017, The Chainsmokers were remix artists. Their 2015 track "Roses" (featuring ROZES) hinted at the melodic, future-bass style they would perfect. But "Closer" (featuring Halsey) changed everything. It spent 12 weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. The pressure for a follow-up album was immense.
In 2017, the reviews were brutal. Pitchfork gave it a 1.5 out of 10. The general consensus was: "Same song, 12 times, with different guest verses." The Chainsmokers - Memories...Do Not Open -2017...
Arguably the most underrated track on the album. It strips back the bombast for a minute and actually lets Drew sing (with auto-croon) about the anxiety of success. “I’m sorry if I’m up and down a lot these days.” It’s vulnerable in a way the rest of the album is too polished to admit.
: Despite the mixed reviews, the album debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and stayed in the top 10 for several weeks, proving the duo's massive popularity at the time. Where to Listen & Shop The villain of the album
Tracks like "Honest" and "Bloodstream" showcased a darker, more introspective side of the duo, stripping away some of the neon gloss to reveal the anxieties lying beneath the party-boy persona. Impact and Legacy
French singer Louane brings a European dance-pop flair. This track has the most interesting chord progression on the album. It’s moody, synth-wave adjacent, and features the album's best pre-chorus. The title is a dark irony: yes, heartbreak won't physically kill you, but the song argues it feels like it will. But in 2017
Released as a single prior to the album drop, this collaboration with Coldplay is arguably the album's crown jewel. Chris Martin’s ethereal vocals combined with the duo’s uplifting production created an anthem for the unamb
Lyrically, the album doesn't push boundaries. You’ll hear the word “these days” approximately 47 times. The guest spots (Jhene Aiko, Florida Georgia Line, Emily Warren) often feel like they are singing in a different room than the beat.