Rudimental – “We the Generation” feat. Mahalia (Singles Going Steady)

Dustin Ragucos: Opposing pitches and instruments that smoothly step in and out of verses are what make “We the Generation” shine. If Major Lazer’s Peace Is the Mission was a highlight for your musical year, then this song might be an extension of that dance-fueled kind of peace. [7/10]

Steve Horowitz: The music and video do a nice job of capturing Rudimental’s ebullient spirit. At first, Mahalia seems to shy away from the camera the way a lover does from the object of her affection. She’s flirting, but can’t help but make her feelings known. The band picks up on this and reward her their warmth and liveliness. The video offers a glimpse of life where just playing, cooking, and hanging out with friends is all that matters. [8/10]

Evan Sawdey: In case you somehow didn’t get the memo, UK dance duos are a big thing, and while this song is serviceable (and, as it goes on, increasingly distinctive with its distinctive Balkan horn stylings in the latter half), it’s hard to top the pop perfection they achieved on the Anne-Marie/Will Heard collab “Rumour Mill”. Rudimental clearly has the skills to rival that other well-known UK dance duo that’s big right now, but their power is diminished when a song like “We the Generation”, an enjoyable album track, is pushed as a single. [4/10]

John Garratt: “We have had enough” — of… manicures, show girl costumes, haircuts, stilt walking, and good times at the corner store? At least someone pass on my props to the trombone player who can wield that thing in a crowded convenience store and not knock over any items. [5/10]