Boey, an artist who knows the power of restraint, is an assured and striking statement in the making of the False Prince. Throughout the record, he has come across with his falsetto voice with assurance, making it a characteristic of his voice. It’s a set that is cohesive, intimate, and distinctly bold.
There’s a feeling of careful construction already from the first moments. Both arrangements have space for vibrancy and complexity, allowing melodies to linger, instead of rushing. It pays off, particularly on “Disease,” which goes in a darker tone that still remains clear. It’s one of the most iconic moments of the album.
Lyrically, Boey transcends reflection to observation, to notions of imbalance, distance, and modern unease. Themes are dealt with lightly, without ever dominating the music, but always lurking in the background. That harmony provides purpose to the album.
The False Prince is a success because of its uniformity. No wasted turns and no out-of-place moments. Rather, it proceeds quietly and confidently, encouraging the listener to remain in its ambiance.
It’s not an album that’s going to seek attention, it’s going to get attention because of its craft and clarity. It’s a significant move forward for longtime listeners and anyone new to his music, and a testament to Boey’s intellectual and unique style. Overall, it’s an album that feels like a quiet statement, with its songs carefully composed and its direction being clearly defined.
