Rock/Review Repeat - Rat Race

Repeat is a stoner/punk trio from Sweden. The first single, “Repeat,“ was released in September 2023 and represents the essence of the band. Combining elements of stoner rock and alternative rock with repetitive riffs and lyrics. The self-titled album "Repeat" was released later in the autumn of 2023, also on vinyl. The album was recorded and produced by Joakim Lindberg (Studio Sickan) in April 2023 and mastered by Magnus Lindberg at Redmount Studios, Stockholm, Sweden.

As the band's most aggressive and dynamic album to date, Repeat's "Rat Race" stands out. The album covers an amazing diversity of moods and styles within the genres of punk, post-hardcore, and stoner rock in the span of nine tracks and barely eighteen minutes. Repeat has shown once again with this fast-paced, impactful album that embodies the spirit of their live shows through unadulterated, unrefined music.

High-energy tunes like "Not Enough" and "Man On The Moon" introduce the album and quickly establish a fast-paced atmosphere. Fast tempos, forceful guitar riffs, and unrelenting drumming characterize these tracks, which perfectly capture the band's punk origins. One may easily visualize the exhilarating environment of a live Repeat concert because of the palpable and contagious excitement.

The album's catchy lead single, "Reasons," acts as a counterpoint to the harder-hitting selections. The band's versatility and ability to combine melodic elements with their distinctive aggression are showcased by the song's appealing melodies and powerful lyrics. The careful approach Repeat took to their songwriting on this album is really evident in this track.

The album "Rat Race" explores themes of introspection and hardship on a personal level. The band has obviously taken more time to write meaningful lyrics, which gives the unpolished musical backdrop more depth. The album's realism and immediacy are further enhanced by the recording process, which was primarily live, offering listeners a true experience of Repeat's dynamic sound.

All all in all, "Rat Race" is an interactive album that embodies Repeat's growth as a group. It's which has a quick, systemic inflammatory shock significant impact. "Rat Race," which features Repeat at their most assertive and artistically honest, is a must-listen for fan base of punk, post-hardcore, or stoner rock.