On Saturation II (Brockhampton’s second studio in two months!), the ‘internet’s first boy band’ sound more creatively adventurous, focused and connected than ever before. Their second album is an improvement on all fronts – lyrically it is more complex and honest, sonically it sounds more developed and grandiose (on some tracks I can’t help but draw similarities with Kanye, especially on ‘My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy), and the songwriting in more concise.
While Saturation I was full of fresh and exciting new ideas, it still felt like a collage that needed more focus. Number II answers that question triumphantly. Kevin Abstract is a master of hooks. Catchy, groovy, infectious. Just look at songs such as ‘Gummy,’ ‘Swamp,’ and ‘Sweet,’ (which were all released as singles). Concise structures, catchy hooks, focused verses, glossy, gritty and gorgeous production. Everything is done to a T.
Ameer Vann is the clear standout on this album, with fierce energy on ‘Teeth,’ twisted feelings on ‘Junky,’ and social commentary on ‘Fight.’ Kevin Abstract also provides some incredible verses on ‘Gummy’ but most notably on ‘Junky,’ where on the second line of his verse he proclaims ‘He gave me good head, peepin’ out while the windows tinted’ and later on proudly claiming he is one of the only openly gay rappers. It’s a powerful and important statement considering how homophobic hip-hop has been historically.
Brockhampton are taking leaps forward for the culture and it is exciting to see their growth as artists. And Saturation III is meant to come out later this year!
Shoutouts go to: Kevin Abstract, Ameer Vann, Matt Champion, Merlyn Wood, Dom McLennon, JOBA, bearface, Romil Hemnami, Q3 and all the creative and management.
Listen/support to Brockhampton’s second studio album Saturation II below:
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