We may well have found our new love this week in the form of RATBOY and his debut single, ‘Sign On’. I have to admit RATBOY is someone I didn’t bother taking an interest in when the now understandable hype all began, passing by his set at Live at Leeds and ignoring any links to his music that appeared on my social feeds, doing nothing more than letting him slip right under my nose. Now looking back, it’s all a bit of a regret.
The first time I listened to ‘Sign On’, I can’t say it amazed me but nor did it bore me. Though after countless hits of the replay button, it wasn’t too long before I was chanting along with the Chelmsford based solo artist. His words speak for many teens these days, though not all are “young, dumb and living off Mum”, the majority have most definitely uttered the phrase “I’ve got no money it’s all gone” a few times that’s for sure. It’s quite a negative track as a matter of fact, signifying the sad truth for the teenage society in a lighter manner. RATBOY’s sound is forever being compared to that of Jamie T’s, and though it is true, it is indeed similar; it’s not a bad thing like some seem to suggest. Though don’t be like myself and ignore RATBOY due to this, as there is without doubt a sense of originality and his own creativity within. ‘Sign On’ is a brilliant middle finger up to modern day society, portraying his relatable views on life in a way that provides enjoyment to others. There’s a definite brighter future ahead for RATBOY in this game, and we’re positive he won’t be “young, dumb and living off Mum” for much longer.
RIFFED’s Rating: 9/10