The modern day boy-band BROCKHAMPTON has recently released their fifth album, GINGER, in three years. BROCKHAMPTON is a band consisting of over 10 members, with the most notable artists being Kevin Abstract, Matt Champion, Merlyn Wood, Dom McLennon, and Ciaran McDonald. The group produces mostly an alternative hip-hop and rap hybrid that features multiple artists at a time.

For the most part, BROCKHAMPTON fans and critics have been supportive of the new album, as it is only the second album without former BROCKHAMPTON artist Ameer Vann, who was removed from the band for abuse allegations. Some of the songs on the album indirectly addressed the departure of Vann, describing the large influence Vann had on the various artists. For example, on the seventh track of the album “DEARLY DEPARTED” lead vocalist Kevin Abstract says, “What’s the point of having a best-friend if you end up losing him” in reference to the departure of Vann, his high-school best friend and former band mate. The idea of moving on from a loss comes up quite often in GINGER, which is a key contributor to the album’s success. This is seen in songs like “BIG BOY” and “NO HALO” which have seemed to heavily resonate with certain fans.

BROCKHAMPTON is one of my favorite artists because of their originality, unique personalities, and outstanding vocals. The first three albums referred to as the “Saturation Trilogy” shed light on the bands talent and reeled in millions of supporters. I personally liked the quick tempo of the music and their culturally aware subject matter. Within GINGER, my favorite tracks were “BOY BYE” which was an upbeat track that stood out from the other deep and thought provoking songs of the album. The optimism and pace of the song shined and as a result, is the second most popular song of the album. Also, unlike many of the other listeners, I liked the fourth song of the album “HEAVEN BELONGS TO YOU” because it featured a new artist — Slowthai, who has a really unique vocals and a more satirical approach to the music. 
Different to the rap heavy “Saturation Trilogy,” GINGER, was a very melancholic experience that viewers could relate to, and in my opinion solidified BROCKHAMPTON position as an up and coming boy-band.