As a new music release cycle has begun, it can be overwhelming to keep up with the copious amount of fresh releases from artists. YSB Tril makes a serious impact with his sophomore album “STARSTRUCK 2,” making sure his mantra of “young self-made boss” courses through the listener’s veins. The 19-year old has an undeniable niche for incorporating hard-hitting trap beats and transforming his melodies into songs you are incapable of forgetting. We had a chance to sit down with YSB Tril to discuss his musical experimentation, creative process, and overall thoughts on this fresh project.

The album opens strongly with “TURN ME DOWN,” a heroic anthem that proclaims the pride he has for his roots and his successful come up. This track is undeniably a song that will dominate summer 2022, with its catchy hook and joyful synths. Immediately upon speaking with Tril, he let us into his world as he reinforced his deep connection to his hometown of Asheville, North Carolina and how much his family means to him. He expressed that his dream was to eventually play the Walnut Creek Amphitheatre in Raleigh, NC, as this would be a “really full-circle moment for [him], since [he] grew up not too far away.” There is a sense of humility in Tril that is unique, and this quality has definitely propelled him forward in his career and impressive songwriting abilities.

“STARSTRUCK 2” acts as a sequel to his smash EP “Starstruck,” which was released in 2019 and houses some of his most successful songs. Tril wants his fans to see his elevated sound even from his last project, as “Starstruck” was “a big moment for [him].” He “feels really strongly” about the direction he is going with his new sound, as he showcases both his soulful singing voice in tracks like “DRUNK CALLS,” and unreal flow in “LOOSE SCREWS” with YungLiV. He has been actively trying to experiment with “pop, R&B, and trap stuff,” while still giving his die hard fans what they want, and he says we can expect even more experimentation in the coming year.

When we asked Tril what song was most difficult for him to make, he immediately told us that his collaboration with midwxst, “PARALYZED,” was the leading contender. Crazily enough, he admitted “[he] didn’t even want to do that song” The producer practically begged Tril to hop on the beat, and he reluctantly agreed. The vulnerability showcased in this track is an amazing switch from the more hard hitting predecessors, and he drew from his biggest musical inspiration, Juice WRLD, to create a song all about the inability to function without someone after they’ve left your life. On a lighter note, Tril told us that he had the most fun recording “LOOSE SCREWS” since it’s a true rap song and “[he] hasn’t dropped anything like that in a while.” Our personal favorite, this track falls midway through the album, and certainly stands out with bumping production from Bankroll Got It and Diego Ave.

YSB Tril’s “STARSTRUCK 2” deals with the highs and lows of life, including love, lust, and success. He does an impeccable job balancing his lyricism in the fun parts of life, while not veering away from the more difficult topics. This is an extremely strong sophomore album, and we know we aren’t alone when we say we genuinely cannot wait to experience YSB Tril rise to even greater stardom, as his career is only beginning.

You can keep up with YSB Tril on Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube. Starstruck 2 is available on all listening platforms now!