Archives:
Red City Radio
Several weeks ago, Red City Radio played Bottom Lounge and we caught up with singer/guitarist Garrett Dale before the show. We talked about their new EP on Red Scare Industries, SkyTigers, including how it was written and recorded, as well as the origins of its unique title. SkyTigers finds Red City Radio further uncovering their own distinctive sound, while simultaneously making strides with their songwriting capabilities. We discussed what motivated the EP’s style, in addition to some seemingly random topics, like professional wrestling, Charlie Chaplin, Death Row Records and more.
Red City Radio – SkyTigers
Red Scare – Release Date: 3/09/18
Marking their first official release in nearly three years, SkyTigers finds Red City Radio embracing a multitude of new influences to further hone their signature sound. Recorded by Mike Kennerty, (The All-American Rejects) and mixed by Matt Allison, (Alkaline Trio, The Lawrence Arms) the EP not only sounds phenomenal, but also highlights the subtleties found within the detailed songwriting. “If You Want Blood…” is the leadoff track and it contains many of the characteristics found throughout this collection of songs: layered backing vocals, blistering guitar solos and an underlying sense of self-empowerment. “I’ll Still Be Around” opens with a slight country vibe and piano accents, not unlike frontman Garrett Dale’s solo EP from last year, before the rest of the band comes in and provides a sturdy framework that spotlights the talented rhythm section. “In the Shadows” is an ominous rocker that recalls 80’s metal and boasts the record’s most intricate guitar leads, while “Rebels” is a defiant, melodic anthem that’s sure to elicit significant crowd response when played live. With the title track, RCR has managed to craft a uniquely structured six-minute entry that champions positivity. It’s largely built around a piece of dialogue from the 1940 film The Great Dictator, reinforcing a message of inclusion and persistence, which seems especially relevant nowadays. SkyTigers sees Red City Radio further differentiate themselves from their peers with topnotch musicianship and the merging of multiple genres. These five songs represent a new era for the band and should leave fans anxiously awaiting their next full-length.
Garrett Dale – Two Ts
Red Scare Industries – Release Date: 5/26/17
Last week, Red City Radio singer/guitarist Garrett Dale released his debut solo EP, called Two Ts. Comprised of three original recordings, this record features fully-realized arrangements, as opposed to the typical punk frontman just hammering away on an acoustic guitar. These songs not only display Dale’s songwriting expertise, but also demonstrate softer vocals and something distinctly different than the gruff, sing-along punk that Red City Radio is known for. The EP opens with “2016 Was…,” which laments the loss of loved ones and the results of last year’s Presidential election. The song uses a strong folk influence, subtle guitar leads and even a trombone solo to convey its message. There’s also a sense of dry humor throughout, which really helps to lighten the otherwise serious lyrical content. “House Full of Dogs” is next and talks about the various struggles that many encounter in life, especially in regards to growing older, but how those troubles are ultimately outweighed by simple pleasures and good times with friends. The song incorporates piano and saxophone to help create a unique entry that still fits well with the other tracks. The EP concludes with “Down the Rabbit Hole,” a tune about missing home that’s extremely relatable and engaging from start to finish, despite being over five minutes long. Two Ts is recommended for fans of sincere folk/punk, as well as those wanting to hear Dale explore different musical influences. Also, the fact that he’s stretching outside of his songwriting comfort zone will likely lead to exciting results on the forthcoming Red City Radio LP.
Follow Us
-
