Label: Self-released
Release Date: 12th June 2020
Rating: 9/10
"Centred around the idea of karma after the breakdown of a relationship, this song exudes attitude."
Formerly Ørmstons, new band on the block RAE takes influence from bands such as Marmozets and YONAKA. Sonically, the four-piece are rock heavy, parting ways with their former indie pop alter-egos to fuse hard-hitting guitar riffs with intuitive, punching lyrics in debut single ‘Never Meant To Start A Witch Hunt’.
Whether intentional or not, the subtly feminist undertone facilitated by the “witch hunt” analogy is very Courtney Love, Hole-esque. Centred around the idea of karma after the breakdown of a relationship, this song exudes attitude. “They always say: never meant to start a witch hunt” is a recurring line, almost haunting, iterated with sass and echoed throughout. The vocals are gorgeous, providing a nice juxtaposition to the darkness of the heavy guitar riff. These two forces combine to create an almost menacing energy, rising in intensity during the breakdown and capitulating with a soft “they always say…”, ending with a reverbing bang. This certainly fulfils their self-described “bedroom sass” identity.
In an interview with FUZZY, frontwoman Jess Huxham stated “I want to write music that makes people feel like they can do anything. I want to write about actual problems that we face day in day out.”
The band previewed this on their YouTube channel as part of their Lockdown Session series, which also saw them cover Dua Lipa’s ‘Physical’. With high-spirited hand gestures and facial expressions galore, Huxham manifests confidence and charisma. Bandmates Will Smith, Bob O’Hare, and Jamie Collins exude a fresh, understated vibe, providing an insight into the chaos this act might reap live.
To put it simply, this band radiates coolness. Watch this space.
‘Never Meant To Start A Witch Hunt’ is available to stream on all major platforms now.
Words by Eleanor Noyce
11th June 2020.
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