the record / boygenius / March 31, 2023
- Joshua Yoo
- Apr 16, 2023
- 1 min read
This album existing and arriving is a real gift, considering the kind of musical profile each member has respectively built up to this point. Cheekily titled ‘the record’, the group seems to poke fun at the special opportunity boygenius has to come together once again, and they seem to make the most of it musically.
There’s obviously plenty of stylistic similarity between the three, which explains why ‘the record’ is so cohesive across both the ballads and the rockers. The softer, intimate cuts feel comfortable and familiar, with plenty of beautiful strung arrangements (“Cool About It”) and delicate vocal layering (“Letter To An Old Poet”). There’s a case to be made that occasionally they might be too in their comfort zone of delicate balladry, as tracks like “Emily I’m Sorry” only seem par for the course at this point.
The three bring good energy on songs like the playful grunge of “$20” or the soaring hooks on “Not Strong Enough”, and in general their indie rock sensibilities are infectious and fun across the board, even if they aren’t pushing any new sounds or creative. The energy also fuels the heartwarming themes of friendship, as it’s clear as you listen that the three really care for each other and are more than happy to express their love for each other.
Within the music industry especially, it’s actually not that common to see collaborations that spawn from such a true place of friendship and love. The music certainly reflects the warmth and bond they share in a touching way.
Highlight(s): Not Strong Enough, Satanist, Letter To An Old Poet, Cool About It, $20
Lowlight(s): Emily I'm Sorry, Revolution 0
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