The Return Of No Doubt: Middlin' First Single 'Settle Down'

No Doubt was one of the signature pop/rock bands of the mid-1990s, with great tracks like "Just A Girl," "Don't Speak" and "It's My Life." Unfortunately, there were some real stinkers, too: "Hella Good" and "Hey Baby." In 2004, Gwen Stefani went solo and spewed out one of the worst songs of the year, "Hollaback Girl." (It's hard to believe that Stefani is 42 years old; she hasn't changed one iota.)

After nine years, the band has reunited, and first track "Settle Down" is an ode to its roots: framed in ska, with a sing-along pop chorus... and a lot of noise in between. (First listen: Song overall garners a B-. The chorus: A-. Breakdown section, which sounds like a Nicki Minaj mimic: D). No Doubt's sixth album, "Push and Shove," is scheduled for release September 25. I had hoped for better. See what you think... *