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Review: Rathborne - Soft

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Been searching for an album that blends the nostalgia that is classic rock with the punk you grew up loving? Well, look no further than Luke Rathborne’s new album, Soft, a record encapsulating the young rocker’s potential. An eleven-song release, Soft is a hat-tip to the past and one that does so in good fashion.

Soft is an album that leaves behind the polished glamour seen in today’s music industry and opts to showcase a rawness that reminds one of DIY garage rock. Songs like “Low!” and “Last Forgiven” are the best examples of this, while hinting at some of Rathborne’s classic rock influences. Speaking of influences, Soft is a release that’ll have listeners reminiscing of such acts like The Black Keys, Elvis Costello, The Ramones and even Pixies with its unique blend of ambient and classic rock. 

However, while the album does draw comparisons to many, it does so in a way that keeps the listener interested. It’s not a direct copy of any one band and Rathborne’s style is injected into every song. Tracks like “Little Moments” and “Why” will transport you back to the seventies, while “Eno” and “What More” will bring you back to the pop era that was the eighties. It’s this variation that keeps Soft from getting swallowed by the pack and ensures listeners are able to find at least one song to grasp onto.

Overall, Soft is an album that blends the music of decades past with lyrical and stylistic content that is relatable to listeners of any age. Rathborne’s ability to blend the likes of classic rock, ambient rock and punk is admirable and he manages to do so in a way that not only keeps the listener interested, but has them hitting repeat as well. It’s a solid release from the young musician and is one that’ll definitely have fans flocking to his side.

Download: I’m So Tired

4/5

By Clare Fitzgerald