Alternative musician BØRNS returns strong on “God Save Our Young Blood,” a promo single from his sophomore album, ‘Blue Madonna.’ Lana Del Rey provides the assist.

“Climbed up the tree of life, kicked out of paradise / Living good, doing evil is the toss of the dice.” Back in 2015, Michigan bred, Cali-based alternative musician BØRNS came onto my radar with his major label debut Dopamine.  Throughout his debut album, BØRNS proved himself to be the restless, eclectic type, a selling point by all means. After more than a two-year hiatus, he returns with his sophomore album, Blue Madonna (January 12, 2018).  With four singles available in advance, arguably the biggest comes by way of “God Save Our Young Blood,” featuring Lana Del Rey.

“Damn, look at the sunrise / Glowing finish line, made it in record time.”

Sigh, that’s how the relatively low-key vocals commence, following a brief introduction.  The sound is cool, yet mysterious. There’s an air of chill, yet BØRNS still exhibits energy. Throughout the record’s course, Lana Del Rey sings alongside him, as opposed to being featured in a substantial solo role.  In other words, there’s no LDR verse to be found, which is a bit of bummer. Nonetheless, the pairing of the two distinct voices is strong, and when we do hear isolated, solo Del Rey parts, expectedly, it’s awesome.

The energy, aforementioned on the first verse, reaches a true fever pitch on the chorus. The enigma grows more enigmatic, with the synth-driven production leading the charge.  Initially, the chorus sounds foreign compared to what precede it, which is part of the charm and unpredictability.  After the ear adjusts, the magic of this opening gem from Blue Madonna is revealed in all its glory.

“God save, God save our young blood / God save, God save our young love / Hot pavement, hot pavement, hot wheels in the sun.”

Final Thoughts

“God Save Our Young Blood” is a superb promo single and opener for Blue Madonna.  More listeners should get keyed into BØRNS, who is truly an intriguing musician.  Adding Lana Del Rey to the mix, limited appearance or not, adds to the allure.

BØRNS • Blue Madonna • Interscope • Release: 1.12.18

Writers: Tommy English, BØRNS; Producer: Tommy English

Photo Credits: Interscope