Ben Platt, So Will I | Track Review 🎵

Actor and singer Ben Platt delivers the perfect song, “So Will I,” for times such as these – the devastating coronavirus pandemic.

“‘What if when my fears show up / I’m too afraid to face them?’ / Well, I can’t fight your battles / But I sure can hold your hand and promise you…” Ben Platt is certainly an incredibly talented individual.  It’s unfortunate that his 2019 debut album, Sing to Me Instead didn’t receive more attention.  Regardless, the actor and singer is doing just fine for himself (The Politician).  On a side note, is it strange that he’s dating his Dear Evan Hansen successor? Whatever – two hot guys, right? Right! Anyways, like so many musicians, Platt took the opportunity during the COVID-19 pandemic to write new music, hence “So Will I.” “So Will I” is produced by FINNEAS and co-written with Michael Pollack via Zoom.

https://twitter.com/BenSPLATT/status/1257870343303081984

“The sky will still be up there / And the sun will always shine / The stars will keep on fallin’ / For the ones who wish at night /… The world will always be there/ And so will I.” The chorus sums up the comforting, thoughtful, and uplifting nature of “So Will I.”  As always, Platt impresses with his marvelous, expressive pipes, particular on the aforementioned centerpiece. He dips into his falsetto, which is quite beautiful.  Of course, his full-fledged voice is ear candy itself, whether he’d never slipped any of the ‘false’ in.

Beyond the incredible songwriting and magical vocals, the pacing, progression, and production of the record are incredible.  FINNEAS is a genius, sigh. Beginning as a piano ballad, “So Will I” gradually becomes much lusher, more dynamic, and more energetic, before smartly bringing things back down towards the end.  The nuance – incredible.

Final Thoughts

All in all, “So Will I” is a triumph for Ben Platt.  More importantly, this is a terrific record tailor made for times such as these – the devastating coronavirus pandemic.  Honestly, how can you not feel hopeful listening to this supportive record?

Ben Platt • “So Will I” • Atlantic • Release: 5.8.2020

Photo Credit: Atlantic