Benson Boone’s debut studio pop-rock album, titled “Fireworks & Rollerblades,” was released on Friday, April 5. The 21-year-old upstart has risen to prominence over the past year with notable songs such as “Ghost Town” and “In the Stars.” As his following continued to grow on platforms such as TikTok, his first album received more anticipation than he could’ve ever hoped for.
“Fireworks & Rollerbladers” has been a momentous success, with the album debuting at No. 6 on the Billboard 200. The lead single, “Beautiful Things,” was a powerful and electric song that reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it his highest-charting single to date.
Boone’s second single off the album, “Slow it Down,” also performed well in the charts, rising to No. 40 on the Billboard Hot 100. The track has a unique style, with a transition from a piano-led beginning to a crushing rock performance.
“Fireworks & Rollerblades” is diverse in its style, and it has become clear that Boone has found his niche in the genre. His lyrics are consistent, and the entire album tells a well-polished story throughout the songs. Boone has quickly become a master of storytelling through his themes of love, heartbreak, loss and excitement.
A highlight of the album is the fifth track, titled “Cry.” From the moment Boone teased this song on social media, it became an instant earworm. It starts as a slow ballad but then quickly turns into an upbeat, free-flowing and powerful song with strong instrumentals that keep the track moving in the right direction.
“Drunk in My Mind” is another must-listen track. This song displays Boone’s vocal range immensely and is a personal favorite of mine. The song details heartbreak and the imperfections or hesitation of love. The melody is spot-on, raw and vulnerable in the best conceivable way.
Both “Friend” and “Forever and a Day” are two slow-moving, ballad-like numbers that diversify themselves from others of the album. The lyrics on “Friend” are heartfelt and simplistic in their message, while the latter has its moments of high beats that then quickly switch back to the piano, making this a track that can take you on a journey of its own.
In all sincerity, there are virtually no skips on this record. Other notables like “My Greatest Fear” and “Love of Mine” will be memorable, to say the least, after just one listen. “Fireworks & Rollerblades” is the perfect example of an artist honing their craft and putting out a body of work that is not only great but also leaves a lasting impression, which is massively important for Boone as a relatively undiscovered commodity in the music industry.
Do yourself a favor and carve out around 50 minutes to listen to this album. The opportunity to witness someone at his age grow into a mainstream star is special, and there is no chance of being disappointed by Boone’s craft
