[usr 3.5]

Rising boyband BROCKHAMPTON returns with “1999 WILDFIRE,” their first single following the exit of original member, Ameer Vann. 

Rising Texas-formed, LA-based boyband BROCKHAMPTON have returned with a brand-new single. “1999 WILDFIRE” serves as the promo single from their forthcoming studio album.  Interestingly, “1999 WILDFIRE” is the first single from the collective since member Ameer Vann was kicked out due to sexual abuse allegations. Despite losing a big part of their group, BROCKHAMPTON comes through on their newest single.

“1999 WILDFIRE” commences with a spoken intro by Jazze Pha, introducing BROCKHAMPTON.  Kevin Abstract follows up with the catchy, feel-good chorus, painting the smooth, soulful guitar backdrop.  “My hands up, I let go / My mouth is getting cold / I know they come and go, la-la-la…” Matt Champion follows with the first verse, rapping in his lower register, yet still exhibiting plenty of swagger. Champion makes reference to Magic Johnson, Charlie’s Angels, and my personal favorite, Princess Leia: “Love when you’re double bunned up, Like Leia.”

Joba, completely contrasts Champion, with higher-pitched rap vocals, which are equally agile on the second verse. Rather than clever pop culture references, he raps about olden times – villages, wizards, the now defunct shillings currency.  Following the return of Kevin Abstract, Dom McLennon brings more confidence and energy to the third verse, continuing the agile rhymes.  Bearface sings on the fourth verse, changing the tenor of the record, something that Abstract continues on the final chorus.  Matt Champion is the final voice of we hear, rapping an excerpt from his first line of the first verse: “32 hundred on the.”

Final Thoughts

All in all, “1999 WILDFIRE” is a solid offering from BROCKHAMPTON.  The production is smooth and the rapped and sung verses are all alluring.  There’s nothing here that necessarily moves the needle, but those unfamiliar with the up-and-comers as of yet definitely have something to sink their teeth into.

BROCKHAMPTON • 1999 WILDFIRE – Single • Question Everything, Inc. / RCA • Release: 7.9.18

Photo Credits: Question Everything, Inc. / RCA