South Arcade "2005" (2024)

 

I can't get over how young and fresh faced this English four piece appear. Reminding me of how the years have gotten paste me, they look straight outta the alternative scene of my youth. 2005 is their only non-single release, a twenty minute EP who's title speaks to the sound and aesthetic their emulating. South Arcade look like post Tony Hawk's skater kids, birthed from a time capsule. I love it, my youth is cool again!

Aesthetic and appearance aside, South Arcades sharp ascension is based on merit. They have amassed almost a million monthly Spotify listeners off the back of this six track and a string of singles. A strong debut record could rocket them even further.

Its exciting and I'm hopeful they have it in them. Although influences are stark and obvious, even overtly stated through their intentionally imitating music videos, the band have enough individuality and expression of their own in the mix to define these songs as South Arcades'. Mainly a breed of Pop Punk, Nu Metal Alternative Rock, the fond influences of Linkin Park, No Doubt and Avril Lavigne are striking.

 Alongside its anthemic title track, Nepo Baby and How 2 Get Away With Murder have a similar magnetic pulls. Warm grooves and catchy hooks, with Harmony Cavelle's, note the name, easy voice leading a colorful aggressive charge. Powerful and poppy with these occasional dives into rapped lines, she seems like the magic ingredient.

The production style is loud and punch, fondly reminiscent of the heavier edged Ocean Grove. These bands actually share a lot of similarities. A tour together would be quite fitting. Tangents aside, South Arcade are a delight. Given their so young, the potential that comes with musical maturity is something to watch out for!

Rating: 6/10