After a whirlwind introduction to the alt scene, ALT BLK ERA are not only carving out their own path embracing a wide array of genres and styles but are also nurturing a safe space. Raising awareness of chronic illness, and seeing Nyrobi share her own personal story, the duo lays bare at the heart of their music the incredibly poignant message of diversity, inclusion and acceptance. Smashing through boundaries and building a supportive community with rave anthems and high-octane alt-rock, all in their debut album, is a pretty impressive feat.
It’s an emotive opening to be found in Straight To Heart. Soft vocals offer an intimate, personal feel. Drums and bass give the track movement—the addition of guitars later in the track injects a boost of power, filling out the instrumentation. This introduction not only demonstrates the genre-fusing sound to be found in Rave Immortal; thematically, the honest and raw nature of the album is established. Harking back to the early / mid-2000s alt rock-era and explosion of electronics that arose from the likes of Pendulum These influences entwine with rap and drum ‘n’ bass, to form a dynamic journey throughout Rave Immortal’s tracklist. Crashing Parties is particularly evocative of the style found in Pendulum’s 2008 release In Silico, met with ALT BLK ERA’s infectious energy. Emerging with a haunting choir, textural synths and beats, Crashing Parties transports you straight to the club.
Switching gears to My Drummer’s Girlfriend, the repeating riff that spans the entire song is sure to make itself at home in your head. Nyrobi and Chaya’s choice of more modern minimalist vocal styles in this track keep the focus on the lyrical hooks and rhythmic momentum. The variety on Rave Immortal ensures that the next track will bring something surprising. In the latter half of the album darker offerings emerge on the album’s track listincluding the likes of Hunt You Down. While the lead synth may strike as reminiscent to Lady Gaga’s Poker Face, ALT BLK ERA curate their own darkly seductive sound with guitars and beats entwining amidst the moody, atmospheric electronics.
Beginning with a gothic choir pad, drum ‘n’ bass and vocoder effects, Upstairs Neighbours erupts into a rave. Throwing in a narrative with the appearance of their landlady’s character mid-song highlights the humour and sense of fun had with this album; ALT BLK ERA play with it because they can. The pair’s rebellious streak shines through Upstairs Neighbours, then augmented with the raised intensity of Come Fight Me For It. Venturing into the shadows, Catch Me If You Can is the darkest and heaviest track on Rave Immortal. The theatrics of a gothic choir, orchestral strings, synths and thundering bass tones, all collate into an epic haunting production. The title track draws Rave Immortal to a close in an aptly drum-and-bass-heavy onslaught. It’s an anthemic hit.
Rave Immortal is a fantastic display of unconfined creativity, taking the reins to explore multiple stylistic and genre realms in order to achieve the best mood for each song. While open and authentic, ALT BLK ERA have ensured that Rave Immortal is high-energy and fun. It’s rebellious, heartfelt, and highly charismatic.
For fans of: Ashnikko, Pendulum, Billie Eilish
‘Rave Immortal’ by ALT BLK ERA is out now on Earache Records.
Words by Holly Royle
