With second releases, bands often stumble-the spark fades, and ideas seem to run out. Listening to ROYAL BLUSH’s new EP “From Where We’re From”, that’s exactly what I was expecting. I was left waiting.
Four tracks, three of which were already singles-yet together they sound like a cohesive statement. The guys from Jersey City joke themselves: “Throwing out 4 slices from where we’re from!” And it really feels like a snapshot of a band outgrowing itself right before our eyes. What immediately grabs you is the meticulous sound design. 90s alt-rock nostalgia is crossed here with dense grunge in a way that makes the speakers start to breathe.
“Gimme” hits right out of the gate with a guitar riff and immediately sets the tone for the entire release. But “Ur Cure” surprised me-an unexpected turn toward sensual alt-country that fits seamlessly into the tracklist. “Roll the Dice”-a longtime fan favorite at live shows-has transformed here into an arena rock anthem, just as it was meant to be from the start. Closing out the record is “Like Ur Mine”-the darkest and most intimate piece: lyrics about forbidden love inspired by “Grey’s Anatomy”, carrying just as much drama as the show itself.
The EP “From Where We’re From” is clean, confident, and very mature indie rock from guys who know exactly where they came from and where they’re heading next. Turn it up loud.
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