The distinctive and paradigm shifting 13-member rap/hip-hop collective and boyband known as ‘Brockhampton’ released their 5^th studio album ‘Ginger’ in late August. Formerly being recognized as a high energy and animated group, Brockhampton takes a drastic turn as they release an album that feels very dreary and emotional, focusing on topics never quite explored by the band as of yet, such as depression, loss, and a dwindling faith in god. Although a bold and potentially dangerous switch up in terms of message, Brockhampton still delivers a banger of an album.

‘Ginger’ comes out after an extremely hard and trying time for the group following the exile of former member Ameer Vann. Vann, who in many ways was the face of the group, was kicked out of Brockhampton after allegations of wrongdoings against another member and sexual abuse against his girlfriend surfaced. After losing Vann, the group decided to cancel the album that was coming out a few weeks after and discontinue the tour that they had planned. A few months of silence later and they finally released their 4^th studio album ‘Iridescence’, which mostly tanked in terms of sales, making some people wonder if the group would ever recover from losing such an important member. The disappointment of ‘Iridescence’ and the Ameer situation drives Brockhampton’s new sound that was unveiled in ‘Ginger’.

The first track, “NO HALO”, is by far the most mature sounding song the group has released and sets the precedent for the rest of the album. It’s heart wrenching lyrics and somber instrumentals, paired up with a catchy chorus and flavorful beat make it a good listen whether you’re in a good or bad mood. Widely being praised as the best song on the album, “NO HALO” will more than likely be the most memorable piece of the project.

Songs such as “ST. PERCY” and “BOY BYE” remind the listener that the group can still have fun and release catchy and loud music, the likes of which they got shot into stardom from. In a record were happy songs are seldom, these two songs get a lot of appreciation. “SUGAR” is another poppy song that is getting radio time and was performed live on the Ellen DeGeneres Show.

“DEARLY DEPARTED” and “BIG BOY” are the two most depressing songs on the record and gives an uncomfortable insight into the lives and issues that the members of the group face on a daily basis. Dom McClennon’s verse on “DEARLY DEPARTED” goes into more detail regarding his falling out with former member Ameer Vann. A verse with raw emotion along with an overly aggressive tone makes McClennon’s verse arguably one of the best verses in the band’s history.

Brockhampton named this album ‘Ginger’ as if they are cleansing their palate, starting a new beginning. The boys have dealt with serious drama the last few years and they want to leave it behind with this record. The angelic and hopeful sounds that come together towards the end of the album hint at a joyful next project, one more focused on their trademark poppy music. ‘Ginger’ deserves 4/5 Spartan Heads because it delivers something that the group hasn’t been able to do for almost two years. With a growing sense of maturity and familiarity in the music world, fans should be excited with what Brockhampton will do next.