Review by Markus Hamence – 20 June 2025
On 20 June 2025, Benson Boone unveiled his second studio album, American Heart, via Night Street and Warner Records, following his impactful debut Fireworks & Rollerblades in April 2024. This tighter 10‑track set (just over 30 minutes) spans pop, rock, synth, and retro-Americana flavors – a bold, focused step into more narrative-driven territory.
Background and Inspiration
- Rapid creation: Written over just 17 days with longtime collaborator Jack LaFrantz and producers including Jason Evigan, Evan Blair, Malay, and even Boone himself, the album channels a spontaneous, creative burst.
- Artistic shift: Boone wanted to transcend the breakout success of ‘Beautiful Things’ and ‘Fireworks & Rollerblades’, focusing this time on a cohesive ‘body of work’ he could truly believe in.
- Life-altering spark: A near-fatal car accident from his youth – shared experiences with his best friend – gives the far-reaching title track ‘Young American Heart’ its emotional weight.
Musical Style and Production
Sonic palette: There’s a nostalgic sheen here—think Springsteen, ELO, ’70s synth-pop, with a dash of Queen-like grandeur, especially on “Mr Electric Blue,” “Mystical Magical,” and the climactic finale.
Diverse production:
- Lead single ‘Sorry I’m Here for Someone Else’ features synth-pop energy over a dark piano base, born from turning a slow writing session into an upbeat jam.
- ‘Mystical Magical’ bridges quirky falsettos and retro-pop interpolation of Olivia Newton-John’s classic Physical chorus.
- On ‘Momma Song’, his vocals are polished yet raw, offering familial intimacy.
- Closing track ‘Young American Heart’ is a soaring, Killers-ish anthem reflecting on trauma and friendship.
Track-by-Track Analysis
- ‘Sorry I’m Here for Someone Else’ – A genre-blending opener with emotional lyrics, phosphorescent synth riffs, and cleverly flipped tempo, capturing anxiety over seeing an ex.
- ‘Mr Electric Blue’ – Glossy and nostalgic: ELO comparisons are apt, as Boone sings about hero-worship of his dad in a lush, cinematic production.
- ‘Man in Me’ – Synth-laced and danceable, this track recounts the haunting aftermath of past love.
- ‘Mystical Magical’ – Infectious falsetto melodies, referred to playfully by Boone as his “moonbeam ice cream” song, exuding retro warmth.
- ‘Reminds Me of You’ – Mid-album pace-setter with emotional lyricism—a palate cleanser before the heart-heavy second half.
- ‘Momma Song’ – Tender and heartfelt, this one’s a love letter to his mother with sleek production and genuine sentiment.
- ‘I Wanna Be the One You Call’ – Collaboration with Malay that brings focus back to intimacy and vulnerability.
- ‘Wanted Man’ and ‘Take Me Home’ – Atmospheric and introspective; they feel less immediate but add texture.
- ‘Young American Heart’ – The emotional climax: a car-accident-rooted rock anthem that ties together the album’s themes of gratitude, youth, love, and resilience.
Live Performance & Promotion
- Coachella debut (April 11): Boone premiered ‘Young American Heart’ and ‘Mystical Magical’, and even brought out Brian May for ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’, delivering flips and flair – a viral standout.
- SNL appearance (May 3): An energetic entry featuring flips mid‑set, performing two lead singles with theatrical intensity.
- Streaming traction: In the UK, multiple album cuts charted – ‘Beautiful Things’ remained in the Top 10 and “Mystical Magical” surged.
Support & Touring Plans
The American Heart World Tour (Aug 22 – Nov 18, 2025) spans 51 arenas across North America and Europe, marking Boone’s debut in full arena headlining mode. Opening stops include Minnesota and major dates in Boston and NYC.
Final Thoughts
American Heart is a confident, conceptually tighter sophomore album:
Strengths:
- Emotional authenticity – from youthful trauma to familial love.
- Diverse, retro-tinged soundscapes unified by Boone’s versatile voice and pop sensibility.
- Memorable hooks and theatrical flair – especially live.
Trade-offs:
- A few mid-album tracks lack immediate stand-out appeal.
- At 30 minutes, it’s concise – fans may crave a few more deep cuts or sonic experiments.
If you’re drawn to heartfelt pop with arena ambitions and charismatic storytelling, Boone’s matured perspective shines. American Heart slots in as a thoughtful follow-up, signaling both growth and a readiness for big stages.
Stars
5/5 – A vibrant, emotionally layered sophomore outing that balances vulnerability with swagger, backed by lively performances and retro-pop craftsmanship.
More Benson Boone
Facebook
Instagram
YouTube
Website
