RUBBERNECK – Robyn Maddox (reviewed by Dave Franklin)

It’s not so much that ‘RUBBERNECK’ sounds timeless in the way that you would usually use the word – beyond generic chronological categorisation – but it does seem to merge the distinct sounds of different times in its sonic weave.

On the one hand, the song has a distinctly contemporary vibe, especially once it kicks in: a pop-rock blend of raw guitars and groovesome vibrancy. On the other, there is something more vintage at the song’s heart, a succulent poise that wraps itself around the sonic power plays, an elegance that matches the energy, something of the silver-screen era, like a 50’s jazz diva transported through the decades to a modern indie scene or a Bond movie theme gone feral.

‘RUBBERNECK’ is simultaneously witty and wise, the sound of now and an echo of the past, a past where the faded glamour of Hollywood meets the darker, more sinister tones of a noir B-movie. High Society meets Brighton Rock, perhaps. And through such a (movie) lens, she casts her gaze on some very modern, poignant issues, especially mental health and well-being.

With a new EP, Heist, just around the corner, if you are one of those people who always likes to be able to say, “yes, I was into them right from the start”, you need to get on board now…in fact, it might already be too late to claim bragging rights.

Facebook
Bandcamp
Instagram
TikTok
YouTube