The sophomore album from singer/songwriter Alec Benjamin (Un)commentary came to life through a relentless questioning of the world around him: the pressures and disappointments of adulthood, the indignities of social-media addiction, existential anxiety and angst, and countless other manifestations of what he refers to as “raw human nature.” In the tradition of pop-minded troubadours like Paul Simon, the 27-year-old artist transforms his observations into immediately catchy and heartfelt songs that leave an indelible imprint on the audience—a talent evident in hits like his double-platinum breakthrough single “Let Me Down Slowly.” Building on the undeniable promise that prompted Time to hail him as “a pop storyteller for the next generation,” Benjamin ultimately reinforces his rare gift for crafting emotionally honest music that challenges the mind.

The sophomore album from singer/songwriter Alec Benjamin (Un)commentary came to life through a relentless questioning of the world around him: the pressures and disappointments of adulthood, the indignities of social-media addiction, existential anxiety and angst, and countless other manifestations of what he refers to as “raw human nature.” In the tradition of pop-minded troubadours like Paul Simon, the 27-year-old artist transforms his observations into immediately catchy and heartfelt songs that leave an indelible imprint on the audience—a talent evident in hits like his double-platinum breakthrough single “Let Me Down Slowly.” Building on the undeniable promise that prompted Time to hail him as “a pop storyteller for the next generation,” Benjamin ultimately reinforces his rare gift for crafting emotionally honest music that challenges the mind.