BROCKHAMPTON, BUZZCUT | Track Review

BROCKHAMPTON taps Danny Brown for “BUZZCUT,” the intriguing single from their 2021 LP, ROADRUNNER: NEW LIGHT, NEW MACHINE.

They’re back! Who? Everyone’s favorite boy band that’s not a pop or K-pop band, BROCKHAMPTON.  With a new album on the horizon ( ROADRUNNER: NEW LIGHT, NEW MACHINE), Kevin Abstract and company unveil “BUZZCUT.”  As always, members of the intriguing collective perform (Abstract, Merlyn Wood, and Jabari Manwa), but perhaps the biggest attraction is the featured guest, Danny Brown!

As with many BROCKHAMPTON singles, there’s lots to like.  The production is epic, handled by Manwa, Johan Lenox, Video Store, and Queen Sixties.  Part of the allure of the production are the samples/interpolations utilized – Jay-Z, Raekwon, as well as BROCKHAMPTON themselves! The backdrop certainly sets up all parties involved for success. Kevin Abstract takes first blood, delivering aa colorful verse referencing Latino protection, racial injustice (“A platinum record not gon’ keep my black ass out of jail”), and a virus, which seems to have multiple meanings besides the COVID-19 pandemic.  He follows up his verse with a wacky if endearing, gimmicky chorus.  It’s the perfect lead into Danny Brown.

“You niggas ain’t alphas, you’re incels
You normies ain’t a part of the script, doxx your house with crips
Pop shit, now you got content, constant
Where to begin? A veteran with medicine pen.”

Yep, that’s Danny Brown at his most Danny-est.  He’s simultaneous tough and idiosyncratic, which fits the aesthetic and vibe of this banger. Beyond Brown’s distinct verse, we get a bridge, which has similar lyrics to the chorus, but the sound is a stark contrast.  Also, there’s an outro that further distinguishes itself from the rest of the record.

Final Thoughts  

Ultimately, “Buzzcut” is definitely some kind of trip.  As always, BROCKHAMPTON keep things incredibly interesting.  One of the best things the band did was enlist Danny Brown.  The man always brings some oomph to the track.  As the lead single for ROADRUNNER: NEW LIGHT, NEW MACHINE, it definitely builds anticipation. 

BROCKHAMPTON • “BUZZCUT” (Ft. Danny Brown) • Question Everything, Inc. / RCA • 3.24.21

[: Question Everything, Inc. / RCA]