New cover

New

No Doubt · 1999

22 min · 4 tracks · alternative rock

A vibrant fusion of ska and pop-punk, driven by catchy hooks and energetic rhythms that capture the spirit of the late '90s.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    New (album version) — The album version of 'New' encapsulates the band's signature blend of upbeat energy and catchy melodies, making it a standout opener that sets the tone for the rest of the album.
  • →
    New (New & Approved remix) — This remix expands on the original's infectious rhythm with added electronic elements, showcasing No Doubt’s ability to adapt their ska influences into contemporary dance music.
  • →
    New (New Doubt club mix) — The club mix takes the already danceable track to new heights, emphasizing its potential in nightlife settings and highlighting the band's cross-genre appeal.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

45 /100
Lowland
Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

The single showcases catchy hooks and energetic rhythms but lacks depth in its remixes.

What we noticed

  • The single features a prominent horn section that drives the upbeat tempo, characteristic of ska influences.
  • The album version is followed by three remixes, each altering the original's arrangement and energy level.
  • The lead vocals are layered with harmonies that create a rich texture, particularly in the chorus.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
4/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — 'New' solidified No Doubt's mainstream appeal post-'Tragic Kingdom', showcasing their pop evolution.
Themes
late '90s pop culture· ska-infused dance· mainstream crossover
Career context
Released on May 1, 1999, 'New' marked No Doubt's transition into a more mainstream pop sound following their commercial breakthrough with 'Tragic Kingdom'. At this point in their career, they were solidifying their status as a leading band in the pop-rock scene, aiming to reach a broader audience while maintaining elements of their ska roots.
Stylistic neighbors
Paramore· Garbage· The Distillers

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 New (album version) 4:15
  • 2 New (New & Approved remix) 5:41
  • 3 New (New & Approved remix) (extended edit) 6:19
  • 4 New (New Doubt club mix) 6:20

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata