Chainsmokers’ Collage Is a Sure Success

By Sophie Liss, Social Media Editor

The Chainsmokers’ rise to fame began in 2014 when they released the catchy and upbeat song “#SELFIE,” a dance hit about the popular culture trend of taking self-portrait photographs. The musicians’ popularity increased when they released “Kanye,” an infectious track about famous Hip-Hop star Kanye West. Over the next two years, the DJ duo released multiple other famous tracks, such as “Roses” and “Inside Out”. However, there is no doubt that the peak of the duo’s popularity is now, following the release of their extended play (EP) “Collage” on Nov. 4, 2016.

With catchy melodies and relatable lyrics, “Collage” is a sure success. It includes five songs, and features two of The Chainsmokers’ biggest hits, “Closer” and “Don’t Let Me Down.” “Closer” has been at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 for 12 weeks, and is still on top. “Don’t Let Me Down” peaked at number three on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

The EP begins with “Setting Fires,” a rhythmic, fun, and exciting track. XYLO is featured, and sings about the struggle of loving someone and wanting to protect them, but not being able to shelter them forever.

“Setting Fires” is a great start to “Collage,” as it introduces the listener to the same fast-paced tempo and thoughtful lyrics that they will hear throughout the remainder of the EP, while staying true to the unique style of The Chainsmokers’ songs that fans love.

The next song is “All We Know,” an emotional song in which Phoebe Ryan and Andrew Taggart, a member of The Chainsmokers, attempt to cling onto their love for each other through hardships. The track speaks of two people who once were together but are in a fading relationship.

Not only does the song include thoughtful lyrics, but a harmonic rhythm that will have the listener dancing and playing the song on repeat.

The EP continues with “Closer,” the ever-famous song featuring Halsey. With a fast-paced melody and catchy lyrics, The Chainsmokers reached near-perfection with this hit about two people falling in love and wanting to remain young forever.

“Closer” utilizes memorable lyrics and an entertaining beat to relate to young people who have fallen in love and are looking for spontaneity and unforgettable experiences in their lives. Although it is extremely difficult to top this smash-hit, The Chainsmokers nearly do with the concluding songs on their EP.

The final song on the EP is a single from Feb. 2016 called “Don’t Let Me Down.” Daya pleads to her love that she is “losing [her] mind” and “needs [them] right now.” The Chainsmokers use a thrilling beat drop to keep the listener intrigued in not only the music, but the story the song is telling. “Don’t Let Me Down” summarizes the feelings of love and longing for someone to be close to and is an exceptional conclusion to the excellent EP.

The Chainsmokers’ “Collage” is relatable, entertaining, and reflective. It has brought the popularity of the DJs to a new level and will have listeners longing for the duo’s next album.