Every British kid in the early 2000s knew who Steps were. Their music was the sound of school discos throughout primary and secondary schools across the country, their dance moves a sure way to get everyone up and moving (if you don’t remember the line dance to 5, 6, 7, 8 then did you even bother at school?).
20 years have since passed since their first album and Steps are back. That’s right. They’re back with a brand new single, a brand new album and, most importantly, a brand new tour.
When bands are gone for such a long time and decide to make a comeback, most of the time they attempt to change and start making music that sounds like that on the charts currently. Think Busted (which I was extremely disappointed with). Well I’m pleased to say that Steps have done nothing of the sort. Their new single - ‘Scared of the Dark’ - sounds just like their original material, just as 00s as ever, and the song is definitely one that can get everyone on the dancefloor.
The chorus is where the song shines, “I need someone ‘cos I can’t be lonely tonight… come and take me in your arms, I’ll never be scared of the dark.” It’s dramatic but simple, no guest stars or crazy rap breaks, just pure loud 00s pop that somehow still sounds incredibly modern. By keeping it simple, with the females of the band featuring more prominently on this track - as it was more often than not back in their heyday - Steps have slotted back into the UK music scene as if they haven’t been away.
Everything about the track is crisp and clean, the key change towards the end sparkling and twinkling in an aura of the glow of a nineties glitter ball and colour-changing lights. I’m just praying they have a killer dance routine to match when I see them on tour in Bournemouth in November. I may be a little too excited, it’s going to be the most amazing school disco ever.
The only thing better would be that long awaited Spice Girls reunion...
