Calum Hood’s ORDER chaos ORDER Delivers Honest Storytelling

Written by: Keyali Mikaela

After years as the bassist and co-vocalist of pop-rock giants 5 Seconds of Summer, Calum Hood steps into the spotlight as the fourth member of the band to release a solo project with his debut album ORDER chaos ORDER. Released in June 2025, the album has not only resonated with longtime fans but also earned Hood a solid foothold on multiple Billboard charts, marking an exciting new chapter in his career.

ORDER chaos ORDER is a deeply personal exploration of love, loss, and self-discovery. From the opening track “Don’t Forget You Love Me,” Hood immediately sets a tone of emotional vulnerability layered over rich, dynamic instrumentation. The album seamlessly blends indie pop, dreamlike synths, and nostalgic guitar work, crafting an atmospheric soundscape that feels both modern and intimate.

Standout tracks like “Sweetdreams” highlight Hood’s skill in storytelling, using ethereal melodies and contrasting lyrics to evoke a bittersweet mood that lingers long after the song ends. Meanwhile, “Call Me When You Know Better” nods to retro 8-bit sounds, injecting a playful yet wistful energy into the record.

While ORDER chaos ORDER has seen stronger sales in physical formats—debuting in the top 10 on both the Vinyl Albums and Top Album Sales charts—the album’s modest streaming numbers hint at an audience still discovering Hood as a solo artist beyond the 5SOS fandom.

As the fourth 5 Seconds of Summer member to venture solo with notable success, Hood proves his distinct musical identity while maintaining the heartfelt songwriting fans love. Whether you’re a diehard 5SOS fan or new to Hood’s solo work, ORDER chaos ORDER is a compelling listen that balances introspective lyricism with catchy, textured production.

In a time when the band is on an unofficial break, Calum Hood’s debut is a confident step forward, signaling that the best from 5SOS members still lies ahead—both together and apart.