YUNGBLUD, mars | Track Review

Nonconformist alternative standout YUNGBLUD shines on “mars,” the fifth advance single from his sophomore album, weird!

AAlternative musician YUNGBLUD (Dominic Harrison) is ‘one of a kind’ – understatement.  What’s really cool about him is his absolute fearlessness.  Musically, he’s quite aggressive, bringing ample punch.  As a person, he’s unafraid to push the envelope, constantly challenging conformity.  His long-awaited sophomore album, weird! arrives December 4, 2020.  “Mars” marks the fifth advance single.

“Mars” was written by YUNGBLUD and Matt Schwartz, while it’s produced by a team comprised of Mike Crossey, Chris Greatti, Zakk Cervini, and Omer Fedi.  The songwriting is notable, as Harrison imparts the tale of a transgender girl looking for acceptance, particularly from her parents. Harrison highlights her struggles throughout the song.  On the first verse, he asserts, “But she can’t be herself when she’s somebody else.”  On the second, he sings, “Yeah, her Mum and Dad, they couldn’t understand / Why she couldn’t turn it off, become a better man.” He goes on to sing on the chorus her desires to “go to California / There everyone would adore her,” given the progressiveness of the state.  The chorus, is simple but nothing short of awesome as he asks, “Is there any life on Mars?” The first thing that comes to mind given the title, chorus lyrics, and the bombastic nature of this song? David Bowie, of course, which is clearly intentional.

Final Thoughts

YUNGBLUD is unafraid to be a nonconformist, which is something I absolutely adore about him.  His progressive spirit shines bright on “Mars.” The beautiful message of the song is nothing short of awesome.  All boxes are checked off: production, songwriting, and vocals.  Weird! should be quite compelling.

YUNGBLUD • weird! • Locomotion Recordings / Interscope • 12.4.20

[: Locomotion Recordings / Interscope]