Real - Benjamin David (Pop) Benjamin David is bringing the drama and theatrics with their latest track, “Real.” Benjamin credits David Bowie and 100 gecs as influences in their experimental musicality, fusing a pop sensibility with the avant garde. “Real” exemplifies this with its construction—it’s not your standard verse, prechorus, chorus, bridge, etc. layout, and even changes stylistically from pop dance to pop rock two-thirds of the way through—though the strength of the pop chorus anchors the track. The lyrics are also far more poetic than your standard dance bop, with Benjamin telling the story of a ruthless leader who uses his powers for deception and punishment—not your standard subject matter. Boasting a strong tenor—the upper register giving us some Courtney Act vibes—Benjamin creates a style all their own.

Best Lyric: “I put my fingers in my drummer’s ears and sang a childhood song.“