In his latest release, young friend meets a sly confession head-on in “boyfriend material“, and it feels both sleazy and irresistible. The Vancouver native blends his unique style of slacker rock with pop sensibilities to create something that feels like a smooth soundtrack to late-night city drives. What makes this track stand out is how well it straddles the line between being fun and vulnerable. You can sense his struggle—he’s not the “perfect boyfriend” he’d like to be, and maybe that’s the point.
The song is powered by punchy pop-driven melodies, with just enough jazz-influenced chords to keep things unpredictable. The production is nearly flawless, polished but still raw where it matters. It’s a track that is easy to latch onto, but with a sophistication that reveals itself the more you listen. The crisp vocal delivery—complete with a pop star-like timbre—makes the lyrics feel personal, like Tarves is letting you in on his little secret: he’s not really boyfriend material, just someone passing through before “the real thing” comes along. That casual arrogance, mixed with a bit of self-doubt, creates a perfect balance.
“boyfriend material” is undeniably relatable. Who hasn’t felt like they weren’t quite what someone needed? Tarves doesn’t shy away from the messiness, using the sleek production and catchy melodies to cloak the vulnerability underneath. By the end, the track leaves you feeling like you’ve had a genuine conversation with a friend who’s pretending not to care but maybe cares a little too much. It’s clever, and it sticks with you long after the song fades out.
About young friend:
young friend—the project of songwriter Drew Tarves—has made waves in the indie scene, and it’s easy to see why. Blending a love for vintage aesthetics with a sound that’s rooted in modern pop, Tarves has carved out a space for himself in a crowded musical landscape. His background in dance, theater, and even hip-hop is evident in the fluidity of his music. His creative partnership with producer David Marinelli only elevates his work further, creating something that feels both fresh and timeless.
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