--Ada Wofford
----Released 10 December 2021
I first wrote about the Philly band Booze Radly, self-described as “bummer rock,” back in April of this year upon the release of their cover of Jimmy Eat World’s “Sweetness.” This holiday season we are gifted with a new EP (double single?), which ditches the heavy power chords and “caffein-electric” vocals for something more intimate, acoustic, and even Celtic.
Side A is “Paraphrase,” a jangly, meandering tune, infused with emo sensibilities, and delightfully discordant. The guitars seem to overlap and fight with each other like puppies at play, and at times the vocals echo this mischievous tête-à-tête.
Side B is “Bet it All on Black,” a shockingly earnest ballad inspired by Celtic and Medieval sounds. It’s somber, melodic, and almost hypnotizing as it carries us through its varied sections. With these new sounds and styles, Booze Radly seems to bet it all themselves, but the payoff is immense. If you’re looking for a couple of interesting acoustic tracks full of lo-fi charm and plenty of surprises, purchase Bet it All on Black via Bandcamp. Also streaming on Spotify and Apple Music.