BØRNS, the stage persona of singer-songwriter Garrett Borns, has carved a unique niche in the pop landscape. His music is a captivating blend of infectious electro-pop melodies, soulful vocals, and introspective lyricism. This review delves into his discography, exploring the evolution of his sound and themes across his albums.
Dopamine (2015): An Electro-Pop Masterclass
“Dopamine,” BØRNS’ debut album, is a vibrant explosion of synth-driven pop anthems. Tracks like “10,000 Emerald Pools” and “Electric Love” showcase his signature sound – a fusion of shimmering synths, pulsating rhythms, and his smooth, charismatic vocals. The album explores themes of love, heartbreak, and the intoxicating highs of young adulthood. Songs like “Fool” and “California” pulsate with a retro-inspired energy, while “Holy Ghost” injects a dose of funk with its groovy bassline.
However, “Dopamine” isn’t just about catchy hooks. Tracks like “Dug My Heart” reveal a vulnerability beneath the electro-pop sheen, hinting at the artist’s introspective potential that would blossom in later releases. Also, don’t miss the news about the new tour of Gnash and Blackbear.
Blue Madonna (2016): Exploring Vulnerability and Softer Sounds
BØRNS’ sophomore album, “Blue Madonna,” marks a shift in tone. While retaining some of the infectious energy of “Dopamine,” the overall sound feels more subdued and introspective. Tracks like the title track and “Faded Heart” delve into themes of emotional fragility and navigating heartbreak. Musically, the album incorporates softer textures – acoustic guitars and mellow grooves complement the synth-driven soundscapes.
“Blue Madonna” sparked mixed reviews. Some praised the vulnerability BØRNS displayed, while others felt the album lacked the effervescent pop energy of his debut. However, it demonstrated the artist’s willingness to experiment and explore new emotional territory.
Gold-Painted Faces (2020): A Return to Dancefloor Energy & Artistic Growth
BØRNS’ third studio album, “Gold-Painted Faces,” rekindles the dancefloor energy of his debut while showcasing his artistic growth. Tracks like “God Save Our Young Blood” and “Exile” pulsate with infectious grooves, while “Saint Routine” injects a dose of funk with its playful horns.
Lyrically, “Gold-Painted Faces” reflects a more mature perspective. Songs like “Bye-Bye Baby” explore themes of self-discovery and moving on from past relationships. The album showcases BØRNS’ ability to blend catchy pop hooks with introspective lyricism, creating a cohesive and enjoyable listening experience.
Blue Madonna (Deluxe Edition) and Fall EP (2018-2019): Exploring Different Sounds
Between “Blue Madonna” and “Gold-Painted Faces,” BØRNS released a deluxe edition of “Blue Madonna” featuring remixes and new tracks. This period also saw the release of the “Fall EP,” which delved into a more stripped-down, acoustic sound. These releases demonstrated BØRNS’ versatility as an artist, offering glimpses into different sonic directions he could explore.
Conclusion
BØRNS’ discography showcases a captivating artist who isn’t afraid to experiment with his sound. From the infectious electro-pop euphoria of “Dopamine” to the introspective ballads of “Blue Madonna,” and the dancefloor grooves of “Gold-Painted Faces,” BØRNS has established himself as a versatile artist with a keen sense of melody. His willingness to evolve demonstrates a dedication to artistic growth, ensuring his music remains fresh and captivating.