The term “boyband” typically sparks a visualization of male pop singers wearing matching costumes while performing synchronized dance moves. However, for the 14 piece boyband known as Brockhampton, they have claimed this term as their own. By adding twists to the stereotype, Brockhampton has defied nearly every traditional boyband characteristic, while proving they truly are America’s most successful boyband at the moment. With a three piece, self produced album, Saturation, under their belts in 2017, Brockhampton stormed into this year with major projects to be released including a new album, documentary, and world tour.
On Friday, Sept. 22, Brockhampton released their fourth album titled Iridescence. Recorded in Abbey Road Studios in London, the release of this album could not have come at a better time for the band. Following a restless year of musical success, Brockhampton experienced an outbreak of chaos last spring when one of the band members, Ameer Van, left the band after being involved in sexual assault allegations. Dealing with issues within the band, Brockhampton took time off from their tour and production earlier in the year, ultimately pushing back the release date of Iridescence.
However, the band proved to come back stronger both musically and physically. After signing a $15 million contract deal with RCA Records, Brockhampton geared their focus back on what contributed to their highly deserving success: honest, diverse music and a deep connection to their fanbase. Before the release of Iridescence, Brockhampton released various tracks “1999 WILDFIRE”, “1998 TRUMAN”, “1997 DIANA” and “DON’T BE FAMOUS”. Although these songs are not featured on the album, they continued to build anticipation as fans eagerly waited for this 15 track album to hit the Internet. A last big moment before the release of Iridescence was the premier of a documentary directed by band member, Kevin Abstract, titled The Longest Summer Ever. This hour long film detailed the band’s year, including Vann’s departure and the recording of Iridescence.
Ultimately, Brockhampton’s release of Iridescence was much more than another album. For this band, it showed growth, passion, and hope for their future as artists. Starting with track “New Orleans” featuring Jaden Smith, the song is split with verses from multiple band members, highlighting the muli-piece collaboration that brews from Brockhampton. Album favorites include “Honey”, which contains a snippet of Beyonce’s “Dance for You” and “Weight”, a track carried by Abstract and his emotionally vulnerable lyrics about coming to terms with his sexuality.
Iridescence is a piece of artwork that grasps the attention of the listeners at first play. The album showcases all that Brockhampton is as a band through their passionate lyrics and creatives sounds. Brockhampton will be performing at Austin City Limits Festival while on their world tour, “I’ll Be There Tour”. While traditional boybands are known to peak after their quick 15 seconds of fame, it seems things may be different for Brockhampton. After all, they never seem to follow the rules anyways.
