Five years after the surprising release and arrival of music’s coolest supergroup, boygeniusreturn with their debut full length record, the record. While 2018’s EP could’ve easily been a one and done thing and encased in “what could have been” wonderment forever, Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers, Lucy Dacus come together once again to take all that mystery away. Which is very kind.
From all of the interviews, photoshoots and BTS posts on Instagram, it’s clear how much the trio enjoy one another, and this is heard in abundance on the album. Whether it’s the acapella contribution on opener ‘Without You Without Them’, the record shows off their strong bond as much as their songwriting skills.
The first four songs are a great indication of how well-crafted and aligned the record is. Baker’s ‘$20’ delivers the “sick riffs” she wanted to bring to boygenius, but also gives all three the opportunity to let loose and scream their way through its heavy-hitting riffs and atmospheric haze. ‘Emily I’m Sorry’ feels like a Strangers In The Alps cut that highlights Bridgers’s stark lyricism but is followed up by the sparkling intro of ‘True Blue’, the Lucy Dacus-led tune that feels like a warm embrace. While each song details each member’s main contribution to the group, they also show how each member’s role plays a part in helping one another too.
As well as the solid writing, there’s also a decent slice of fun poked at archaic narratives in the industry too. From the recreation of the Nirvana photoshoot to the trio likening Leonard Cohen as ‘an old man writing horny poetry’, the album is filled with guts and bold statements for us all to enjoy, in amongst the inside jokes and teamwork.
While there’s still too much of that old school rot in all levels of the industry, it is a testament that boygenius is comprised of three female musicians who have made a name for themselves individually and collectively. Helping shift the landscape and continuing to fight the good fight for a more equal platform.
‘Not Strong Enough’ is a gutsy number that chugs along at a steady pace and is littered with bubbling synths and furious drumming to add another anthem to the track listing. The ever-rotating vocals combines with the rolling instrumental superbly and leads into a glorious finale. ‘Satanist’ also brings fire to the ears – launching massive statements and guitars riff into the air and landing them right on our heads.
The record is an excellent album, comprised of a supergroup that just happens to be a supergroup. What makes it great is that it exists purely because each member are friends. There’s no expectation or pressure to deliver the goods because of each individual’s status, this is just a chance for some friends to get together and be creative. The result is a record that highlights each artist’s quality while showcasing how good they work together – creating bangers and heartbreakers along the way.