The fourth studio album from the biggest ‘boy band’ in music is an emotional journey stirring the psyches of an excited fan base, as well as an entire music industry.

(above) iridescence album art; Courtesy of Pitchfork

iridescence (n) – a lustrous rainbow-like play of color caused by differential refraction of light waves that tends to change as the angle of view changes (Merriam-Webster)

Since Brockhampton’s first studio release in 2016, they have stirred up a storm among the hip-hop genre, releasing the very successful Saturation album trilogy that following year.

In just the first week of the Sep. 21 release of their newest work, iridescence, the album had been streamed 28.2 million times, with 101,000 equivalent album units, according to Complex Music. It was released via Question Everything/RCA Records.

Just today, Billboard announced iridescence as No. 1 on the Billboard 200 Chart.

Such success comes following a recent world tour and $15 million record deal with RCA Records. Their previous records never saw this much hype, with their previous best, SATURATION III, topping at No. 15.

(above) Brockhampton; Courtesy of Stereogum

NPR Music on iridescence: “Like much of the band’s discography, the heart of the album is scattered but endearingly spry and honest.”

The album opener, “NEW ORLEANS,” is upbeat with some impressive rhymes from Dom McLennon and frontman Kevin Abstract. The song hints at Abstract’s love for London, not to mention a few of the tracks from the new album were recorded there at world-renowned Abbey Road Studios.

The second track, “THUG LIFE,” could reference to the band’s said appreciation of rapper Tupac Shakur (‘thug life’ tattoo). McLennon explores his experience with depression, referencing to Stockholm’s syndrome and his biggest threat being self. This also serves as a transition from the opening track, replaying samples from “NEW ORLEANS.”

The interlude, “LOOPHOLE,” features an interview between DJ Whoo Kid and rapper Cam’ron. Reflecting on his experience with the music industry and the financial troubles that still managed to come with it despite the flair, Cam’ron mentions his continuing search for a ‘loophole’ to find the success everyone always sees.

The one single from the album, “TONYA,” was met with much praise, highlighting troubles with family, on top of dealing with the ups and downs of stardom. This track contains perspectives from members: Abstract, McLennon, Joba, bearface, with a chorus by serpentwithfeet.

(above) Brockhampton performs ‘Tonya’ on the ‘Tonight Show’ – June 20; Courtesy of Billboard

“HONEY” shows appreciation toward rapper, 50 Cent, and features samples from Beyoncé during one of the song’s transitions. Band member, Matt Champion, and his hook from “BUMP” (Saturation II – 2017), can be heard before the closing verse by Abstract.

The band questions past decisions and the temporary pleasures from fame in “SAN MARCOS.” Bearface plays a somber progression on an electric guitar, and also takes a verse. Samples from the London Community Gospel Choir close the song: “I want more out of life than this / I want more / I want more.”

Brockhampton’s recent release was a huge success along with their recent world tour, and sits atop the Billboard 200 for the week of Oct. 6. The group’s discography is available on Spotify, Apple Music, and Google Play.