EP Review: Boroughs (Self-Titled)

In the span of under a year playing the Los Angeles area, Boroughs—Kyle Neal (vocals, guitar), JD Carrera (guitar), Derrick Wong (bass) and Tyler Johnson (drums)—are poised to make an impact outside of the Golden state. The quartet are working with engineer/producer John Spiker (Tenacious D) in preparation for their self-titled debut EP due November 13th. 

Bringing to mind Jason Mraz and Sean McConnell, Boroughs blend elements of country, rock, folk and Americana in a welcoming and poignant six track collection. The well crafted songs focus on love, heartache and uncertainly, with the contemplative and forthright lyrics delivered with an intensity, and an ache, that render them authentic and relatable.

Starting things off is "Keep It Up," a story of reckless youth where “nothing’s quite as bad as it seems, until it is." “Alive” tells the story of the despair felt with heartbreak, “Self-destruction is the only way I know/To feel alive, to feel alive/I’ll take what you got just don’t leave me alone” while the tranquil, almost fragile “Give It Time” (with its haunting harmonies) deals with that point in a relationship many have come upon. “Couldn’t shake off that feeling/Love would drag us down/Make us hate what we once held dear.” With its reflective lyrics, there’s a gentle request for another to simply remain on “Stay With Me.” “Every now and then I accidentally let you see, the weakness in me.” The EP also includes the rootsy, shuffling “Anytime” and “Enough,” a song that kicks off with a bang (hand claps!) and takes on an anthemic feel in the chorus, realizing anxieties and celebrating acceptance and love.

This year has been flooded with excellent releases, but what makes Boroughs stand out is how Neal and Co. bring lyrics to life with an incredible honesty that just hits your heart.

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