I love an album that challenges my understanding and my prejudices.
Lab Rat hails from Australia but he really took off when he was signed to French experimental label Mushroom Pillow. In 2014, having reclaimed his life from the clutches of addiction, Dylan found himself at a crossroads. Fuelled by the memory of his late brother (who tragically died in a car accident) and driven by an unyielding determination, he sought refuge in Singing Bird Recording Studios in Melbourne, determined to carve out a path in the music industry. Despite facing numerous hardships, including physical altercations on stage and bouts of hunger, Dylan persevered, finding solace in a community of kindred spirits who shared his vision. It was during this tumultuous journey that Dylan’s path intersected with Mushroom Pillow, a European label renowned for its innovative approach to music. Dylan knew he had found his musical home. With the support of his friend and mentor, ‘Coach’, he embarked on a new chapter, transcending the confines of the Australian music industry to forge a global presence with Mushroom Pillow by his side.
Lab Rat (real name Dylan James) plays his first ever UK shows at the Great Escape Festival between 14th – 17th May and releases his first album here this week.
There is no little grunge in this album, as well as rap, metal and even punk sensibilities. His rhymes are fierce, the riffs are vicious, the beats are hot and heavy. All the attributes you’d want to hear together in a modern alt-rock album. The emotions shine through as well and his pain is laid bare all over the songs. It’s kinda what you want to hear pumping out from the convertible that burns you off at the traffic lights – an excuse to take off after it to find out just what the hell that is.
Take the single ‘Lost In Soho’. A Motorhead riff kicks it off and then wasted vocals over grunge drums leads into a Japan style main section. The changes are slick and his rap is nasty.
Every track is a trial, but also, every track has some positives.
It isn’t an album for background listening, but crank it up, roll a blunt, and settle into his groove.
