"Boil ur iPhone": Riveting, emotionally authentic indie rock from Beau Stevens

There's a certain mainstream bias that emotionally charged music needs bustling sound dynamics, be it the raw defiance of Rock music in its relentless din or throbbing sound design on Electro-pop. Creative undertakings such as Boil ur iPhone from Beau Stevens rejects this trope, subtracting digitally polished compositions or imposing symphony for an unadorned, spontaneous but nevertheless impactful musicality. And all of this is made possible with acoustic guitars and unadulterated performances, an impressive feat when experienced.

Although Beau's releases can be traced back until 2024, his connection with music runs deeper: owning a guitar at the age of 12 set him permanently on an artistic path, following which he pursued further education and started writing songs after a productive year-long stint at a music consevatory in Strasbourg; determined in achieving greater milestones and eventual breakthrough, Beau has relocated to California to hone his talents further, getting actively involved in live acts at various events, and a residency at Dukes in Huntington Beach.

The indie act has also stated sourcing inspiration from a varied set of performers— from the evergreen luminaries like The Beatles and Elton John, to modern pioneers like The Strokes and Radiohead. Developing a varied sonic palette has also reflected on his discography from its onset; debut release "At Night" (with producer Port Street) is pleasingly resembling to the Paisley Underground movement and 80s college rock, plaintive vocals confessing heartache over breezy, jangling guitars. On the second collaboration, "Don't Be Afraid" has the signature of 2000s indie rock with mellow, playful tones.

"Somber Boy" opens today's LP on a melancholic note: the rhythmic folk-rock tune overflows with solitude-induced anguish, longing for respite through reunion. Whilst summery in temperament, "All in My Head" has cynical undercurrents as the frolicking voice bemoans being an ingrate despite having it all ("My dog's in the kennel, my truck's in the shed, My home's a mansion....My life's in shambles").

Funneling the angsty emo-punk spirit, unrestrained vocals are bitter about a conflicted relationship in "You and Me," a driven folk-punk tune. Mournful "Somebody's Daughter" is dedicated to helpless women ostracized by society, asking for empathy against judgment and complacency. In total contrast to the opening, "The New Year Song" is yet another testament to the songwriting depth present on this album: the upbeat track is rooted in the thoughtful realization of shedding emotional burdens and embracing transitions positively, for change is inevitable, much like seasons.

Listen to Boil Ur iPhone on Spotify, and stay connected with Beau Stevens on Instagram.