“Fast Forward”, the latest single from the production team The R.E.S.E.A.R.C.H., is aptly named. The tune blazes in and out in barely three minutes. It also has a penchant for abruptly shifting volume, feel, and texture at a moment’s notice.

Perhaps those characteristics can be attributed to the ‘fast’ half of the title. What one definitely doesn’t want to do with this number, however, is fast forward it. You might miss something, that way. Chances are, that something is worth hearing.

The stark dichotomy between the verses and the hook is one such thing, which might catch listeners off guard in more than one way. The vocalist seems to be deliberately holding back on the former. He doesn’t sing so much as he chants, although there are a few prolonged high notes that hints at his capabilities.

But, the music is certainly restrained during these parts of the song as well. The drums are rigidly programmed with the tireless four-on-the-floor drum pattern. There’s also something sounding like an acoustic guitar that’s worth noting.

Things quickly gallivant ahead (or fast forward) during the hook, in which the acoustics are replaced by raging, surging electric guitars. It’s then that the vocalist lets loose his full chops as well, belting out “you already know/you already know/so when your heart breaks” while doubling it up with a higher track that showcases his range. It’s a stark contrast to the playful bantering during the verses, and a strong way to galvanize the listeners, party, or bar, as it were, onto the dance floor, each person vying to outdo the other in how loud and animated they can mimic the chorus.

The bass is a definite treat on this number as well. It could almost be an upright one—though it likely isn’t. However, it rolls and bends in time to the beat with an elegance that does the tune justice.

With the overall rapidity of the cut—as exemplified by its length, seismic shifting in song structure, and the vivaciousness of the music in spurts—it’s a solid addition to the overall oeuvre of The R.E.S.E.A.R.C.H., if not a harbinger of what’s to come from the group.