ROADRUNNER: NEW LIGHT, NEW MACHINE - Brockhampton (2021)

Diving headfirst into the dark themes of racism, police brutality, suicide and more, Brockhampton’s ROADRUNNER: NEW LIGHT, NEW MACHINE is possibly their most serious and introspective work to date. Stepping away from goofy beats and lyrics (but not straying too far), the self-proclaimed “rap boy band” makes frequent use of haunting melodies and solemn guitars in tracks like “THE LIGHT”, “WINDOWS” and “THE LIGHT PT. II”. The “LIGHT” duo is particularly potent, as rapper Joba bravely recalls the heartbreaking story of his father’s suicide and the long-term effects it had on him. He even uses the opportunity to update listeners on his newly-rekindled relationship with his mother, who he has previously stated vehemently opposes his homosexuality. In part two, he states: “Me and her just got on good terms / Thank God for them unexpected turns...Thank God for teaching me to learn / Have empathy, even when it burns”. It’s not all doom and gloom, though -- head-bobbers like “BANKROLL”, featuring both A$AP Ferg and A$AP Rocky, include sturdy and bright beats that serve as light-hearted party anthems for listeners to enjoy. Although this album is surely their most melancholy, its beauty along with Brockhampton’s undeniable talent is a definite reminder that “the light is worth the wait” (they promise).