Benjamin Booker’s LOWER is a daring and visceral dive into the heart of modern struggles, blending raw storytelling with a genre-defying sonic palette. Known for his fiery blues-punk roots, Booker takes a bold leap forward here, crafting an album that is both politically charged and deeply personal. Collaborating with underground hip-hop producer Kenny Segal, Booker pushes his sound into darker, more experimental territories, delivering an album that feels urgent, haunting, and utterly unforgettable.
The opening track, “Black Opps,” sets the tone with a biting critique of systemic oppression and governmental overreach. Over a layered backdrop of 808 beats and distorted guitar riffs, Booker’s voice cuts through like a preacher in a storm, rallying listeners to confront uncomfortable truths. This blend of soulful melodies and gritty production runs throughout the album, with Segal’s influence adding atmospheric depth to the already evocative compositions.
On tracks like “Pompeii Statues” and “Hope for the Night Time,” Booker reveals his strength as a storyteller. These songs move beyond protest anthems, offering intimate reflections on resilience and vulnerability in the face of societal chaos. “Pompeii Statues” pairs mournful strings with echoing beats, conjuring a cinematic quality, while “Hope for the Night Time” contrasts a delicate piano line with lyrics about clinging to optimism amidst despair.
Benjamin Booker takes risks
What truly sets LOWER apart is its willingness to take risks. Benjamin Booker confronts and surprises with unconventional song structures, eerie soundscapes, and heavy genre fusion, creating an album that feels alive with tension and unpredictability. Yet, amid the chaos, there’s a constant thread of raw humanity—Booker’s voice, raspy and weathered, grounding every track with emotion.
LOWER is more than an album; it’s a statement. It doesn’t shy away from addressing systemic racism, police brutality, and existential doubt, yet it never feels preachy or overly didactic. Instead, it invites listeners to grapple with the discomfort and find beauty in the struggle.
With LOWER, Benjamin Booker cements his place as one of the most fearless and innovative artists of his generation. For those willing to dive into its depths, this album is a revelation.
