REVIEW: Boston's Finest, Yet To Bloom, Arrive Near Fully Formed with Their Debut Single "People Pleaser"

High spirited and full of youthful energy – Boston’s Yet to Bloom arrive near fully formed with their debut single “People Pleaser”. The track delights in classic pop punk bombast as a playful ode to recognizing the need for boundaries and personal growth.

Despite their brief time playing together, Yet to Bloom sound clearly in sync. Their sound is bright and earnest calling back to the colorful pop punk of 2000’s era bands such as Cartel and Hey Monday.

The vividness of the vocal and instrumental melodies add levity to the song’s message, leaving the listener feeling empowered instead of pitiful. Throughout the song, the guitars stray away from the ostentation present in more modern, easycore inspired bands instead opting for flourishes – such as the harmonics in the intro – to punctuate the vocal melodies. The verses rely on the rhythm section as well as distorted guitars to bolster the low-end supporting vocalist Claire Hudson’s punchy melodies. This works itself into an outstanding chorus with catchy, bouncing vocals from Hudson over occasional staccato instrumental rhythm perfect for head nodding and fist pumping.

She sings, “I live for the feeling/I love being needed” before lamenting the pressure of being “such a god damn people pleaser” acknowledging how an honest desire to be helpful can detriment oneself if not in moderation. The track’s bridge builds into a collection of lush harmonies and backing vocals from Hudson as well as melodic leads from guitarist Ray Lee until a satisfying final chorus.

With “People Pleaser”, Yet to Bloom has put forward a smartly arranged and delightfully executed first single. Their energy, heartful lyrics and talent in composition position them well alongside other pop punk peers. “People Pleaser” delivers as an emotionally honest song, showing the joys of a compassionate effort to prioritize one’s mental and emotional health.'