reggie becton’s ‘the last great american summer’ observes fleeting youth

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‘the last great american summer’ album cover

words: aggy kazlauskas

reggie becton says goodbye to summer with a self-reflective new album

reggie becton might just be the star most of us were waiting for. when it comes to his artistry, the american singer-songwriter doesn’t hold back. he tackles storytelling with thoughtfulness and unruffled confidence, especially on his new album, the last great american summer.

the record’s lead single, ‘die young’, finds becton in a deeply introspective state as summer begins to fleet away: “this nine-to-five’s too much / and i still ain’t made enough,” the singer kicks off the first verse. his songwriting shines bright, positioning growing up as a double-edged sword where responsibility and fun are separated by a delicate barrier.

the production plays a key role, too. ettiene. combines dynamic rhythms and instrument-led musings with shimmering synth textures that feel cinematic – noir-esque, even. the melodies lift you up and straight into a positively dazed headspace which you won’t want to leave anytime soon.

‘purple rain og’, the project’s opener, is a gem of a track. the easy-going musical arrangement here elevates becton’s enticing vocals, allowing his performance to take centre stage.

in fact, becton’s sophomore lp employs the r&b landscape as a foundation for captivating, genre-fusion worlds in which the project’s ten songs draw breath before hitting you with immersive lyricism. whether it’s the vibrant, funk-inspired ‘if i?’ or the alluring ‘dnd’, this album is a compelling body of work that spotlights the musician as a bold storyteller with a rich legacy in the making.

the last great american summer out now.