This review covers the alternative rock track 4 Non Blondes – What’s Up.
This track was released in 1992 on the album Bigger, Better, Faster, More!
The track starts off with some acoustic guitar strumming. This is joined by an electric guitar and some soft percussion sounds. The vocals then come in.
From there, the main chorus comes in. This is emphasized by a more prominent drum kit and electric guitars. The section is capped off with a more instrumental part of the track with a light vocal work.
At this point, the track then falls back and the verse comes in. The track then builds up into the main chorus, led by a brief electric guitar shred. This version of the chorus is altered with some backup vocals.
The track then gradually drops down to a simple vocals and guitar strumming. The vocals help lead the track out.
This track has an interesting history since the release. Some people might more easily remember the remix made by DJ Miko. If not, another version did come out as a meme known as “heyyeyaaeyaaaeyaeyaa“. This version, of course, is not only an altered version of the previous remix, but is also revoiced as well. The video contains edited clips of He Man as well which, of course, is a rather ironic thing given the origins of the track.
Back to the original version, what makes this track work well is the fact that it has very distinct vocals. These are especially well done during the main chorus. What adds to the strength of the vocals is the fact that they sound great on the more laid back portions during the verses.
Another positive is the strumming guitars mixed with the rock guitars. The slower notes on the electric guitar really work well with the more acoustic sound of the strumming. It added a lot to the energy while still not simply overpowering the strumming. It works quite well.
Generally speaking, this is quite a good track. The vocals really carry the track well. I thought the guitars work nicely as they both keep the track tame and add some energy to the track at the same time. Obviously, with the remixes and memes that kept this track going, this is definitely one that endures.
Score
7.5/10
Drew Wilson on Twitter: @icecube85 and Google+.
