Released: 30 July 2021
East 17 return to form with ‘24/7’ – their first album in almost a decade.
The group shot to fame as one of the biggest acts of the ‘90s with three Top 10 albums and an impressive 12 Top 10 singles – including Christmas No. 1 Stay Another Day.
Following their 1997 split, the band underwent several reunions and line-up changes, before settling on its current configuration; founding member Terry Coldwell, Joe Livermore and former Artful Dodger collaborator Robbie Craig.
Despite the changes, ‘24/7’ is quintessential East 17, packed with attitude and chart-friendly hooks from start to finish.
Album opener Strip – which wouldn’t sound out of place on Justin Bieber’s latest album – brings their ‘90s sound up to date, with summer beats and a chorus that defies you to get up and move.
It’s hardly a surprise that the 5&Dime Remix has become one of East 17’s most-streamed tracks ever.
Elsewhere, the record segues between floorfillers (Feel The Love, 50 Shades) and slick mid tempo numbers (Tell Me You’re The One, Anybody Out There) that put the boys’ tight harmonies front and centre.
Under Control combines the two, with stripped-back verses leading to a double-time chorus that hits in all the right places, while recent single Crying could be lifted straight from the ‘90s but, with up-to-date production, sounds unquestionably fresh.
The group might have been on a ride since their ‘90s heyday but their comeback is a triumph, honouring the group’s legacy while pushing their sound firmly into 2021.
’24/7′ is out now on digital platforms.
