Pop punk group Lucy And The Rats have a self-titled album out. Let me tell you why it’s worth a good listen accompanied with a good dance.
Lucy & The Rats have a discussion about pop punk
The classification “pop punk” is a tricky one. Over the years, the blanket definition is a group of guys with a lead singer belting his heart out about his ex. When it comes to Lucy And The Rats, a female-fronted group, they are pop punk by simplistic definition. The instrumentals have classic punk influence; fearless, gritty, exhilarating. There’s pop here and there, with fast paced drops of uplifting melodies and sounds. The lyricist has a way of sounding cheery and unapologetic at the same time. Thus, pop punk.
A self-titled debut is always tricky because there’s added weight to cement what the band is at its core. Lyrics like “I’m gonna lose my mind” atop bright “na na na” harmonies and “I know you’re tired, but I just want your time” against electric guitars define how genuine the sings are. Relatable lyrics bleed across the record. For instance, “Melody” starts with an affirmation of wanting to just sleep all day. There’s a note of optimism about one day feeling something beautiful and the “na na na” harmonies return. They’re so welcome. They really drive the cute bop home. Alternatively, “Night Comes” is an equally light song sonically. Vibes are vibrant, but the subject matter is about how depression rears its head as night falls. It’s a vivid description of these feelings while electric guitars paint the background. The pace easily matches the footsteps of someone walking through the night trying to escape dark thoughts.
Why you should listen
One thing to point out about the album is its cohesion. While not every song sounds the same, they are all similar, which is enjoyable. If you like one song, chances are sky high you’ll like the other 9. The B side is slightly more energetic than its counterpart. Possibly so there’s no chance of a mid-album slump. Sure enough, there’s no slump in sight. Every song is short, compact, and does what it needs to.
Overall, the album is an impactful debut and a staple in the hot rut that can be summer. I can see this record being a perfect festival hit as well as a “stay in the house” cruiser. Lucy And The Rats are a pop punk band with a fresh vibe, and that’s awesome.
