Six months after their self-titled debut album made waves in the stoner rock scene, Swedish trio REPEAT is back with their sophomore effort, “Rat Race.” The rapid follow-up to their praised debut showcases the band’s evolution, delivering a raw and energetic sound that is both diverse and intense.
REPEAT’s debut album, released just half a year ago, received accolades from both Swedish and international tastemakers. The band’s unique blend of stoner rock was met with enthusiasm, setting high expectations for their next project. “Rat Race” meets and exceeds these expectations with a tighter, more focused sound that spans several genres.
“Rat Race” represents REPEAT’s most intense and energetic work to date. The album navigates through stoner rock, punk, and post-hardcore, presenting a high-octane blend of sounds over the course of nine tracks. Clocking in at just 18 minutes, the album doesn’t waste a second, propelling listeners through a whirlwind of emotions and styles.
Tracks like “Not Enough” and “Man on the Moon” showcase the band’s ability to mix raw energy with melodic sensibilities. The latter opens the album with a strong chorus, setting the tone for what’s to come. The focus track, “Reasons,” stands out with its melodious approach, providing a contrast to the more aggressive tracks and highlighting the band’s versatility.
In creating “Rat Race,” REPEAT opted for a recording process that was mostly live. This decision adds an authentic, raw edge to the album, capturing the band’s live energy and spontaneity. As the band explained, “We prefer the short format and the recording was mostly ‘live’. We’ve put more time into the lyrics and the album is very much a self-reflection. We also wanted to hone in on how it would feel to play the songs live.”
This live recording approach contributes to the album’s intensity, making each track feel immediate and unfiltered. The band’s emphasis on lyrical self-reflection adds depth to the frenetic music, offering listeners more than just a high-speed auditory experience.
The album has already garnered positive reviews, with Sweden Rock Magazine awarding it a 7/10. The magazine praised the album’s opening track “Man on the Moon” for its strong chorus and noted the record’s overall vibe, drawing comparisons to Bad Religion, Therapy, and Queens of the Stone Age. These comparisons are a testament to REPEAT’s ability to blend influences while maintaining a unique sound.
REPEAT’s live performances are a crucial aspect of their appeal. On May 22, the band played in Malmö to an enthusiastic audience, proving that the energy captured in their recordings translates powerfully to the stage. With several gigs lined up across Sweden, fans have ample opportunities to experience the band’s dynamic live shows.
“Rat Race” is a bold statement from REPEAT, solidifying their place in the stoner rock genre while pushing into new territories. The album’s blend of stoner rock, punk, and post-hardcore, combined with its live recording approach and introspective lyrics, offers a fresh and invigorating listening experience. As the band continues to perform and evolve, “Rat Race” stands as a testament to their growth and ambition, promising more exciting developments in the future.
In just 18 minutes, REPEAT takes listeners on a thrilling ride, reaffirming their status as one of the most exciting bands to emerge from the Swedish rock scene. Whether you’re a fan of stoner rock, punk, or post-hardcore, “Rat Race” is an album that demands attention and delivers on all fronts.
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