Boy Jr. (Ariel Allen-Lubman) will make waves with their latest album, I Love Getting Dumped. The personal yet universally appealing project combines humour with sharp insight as Boy Jr. transforms the often painful post-breakup emotions into something uniquely celebratory and cathartic.
With thirteen tracks, each song feels like a mini-exploration of an emotion as they navigate the highs and lows of relationships with a refreshing candour. There’s a song for every level of break up or recovery. Be it tracks like “I Hope You Feel Terrible” that is an explosive confrontation of heartbreak. Rather than a mournful reflection, the song taps into the desire for justice after betrayal. Packed with memorable melodies and high-energy vocals, it captures that moment of wishing you could say the “perfect thing” to someone who hurt you. Through infectious pop-rock rhythms, Boy Jr. channels this wish into an empowering sense of release.
On the other side of the emotional spectrum, “Bullying Myself” offers a raw look at self-criticism. The indie pop-rock backdrop is infused with a clever narrative that strikes a chord with anyone who’s struggled with their inner saboteur. In this track, Boy Jr. holds up a mirror to the kind of internal conversations we tend to avoid and makes it not only relatable but healing. The biting humour of the lyrics softens the weight of its message and reminds one that self-compassion is crucial, even when it’s hard. It’s this duality that makes the album resonate on multiple levels. It’s fun and danceable, yet deeply reflective.
“Still Be Friends” adds another layer to the album’s storytelling as it tackles the awkward aftermath of a breakup where the dreaded “let’s still be friends” speech looms. Boy Jr. transforms this familiar scenario into a catchy and upbeat tune with their signature wit. Expertly balancing its cheerful sound with the sardonic undertones of the lyrics. the track is a sonic embodiment of laughing through the pain.
Boy Jr. brings yet another anthem to life with “I’m Breaking Up With You.” With an unapologetic attitude, this song channels the fire of reclaiming your power after a breakup. The driving beat and catchy hooks make it a dance-worthy anthem, while its raw honesty cuts straight to the heart. The song, much like the rest of the album, reflects Boy Jr.’s unique ability to turn personal experiences into universally appealing art.
With I Love Getting Dumped, it’s clear that Boy Jr. has crafted an album that is more than just breakup songs. It’s a full-hearted embrace of emotional release, growth, and humour. Whether you’re nursing heartbreak or simply enjoying smart, genre-bending music, Boy Jr. offers something real, memorable, and entirely worth your time. I Love Getting Dumped is an invitation to explore the intersections of artistry, gender, and relationships, all while celebrating the complexities of modern love and loss.
