RUNNING THE MUSICAL 'RAT RACE': SHORTCUT'S NOSTALGIC DEBUT

Shortcut has launched a promising debut to the world, showcasing their talent and passion for classic rock music. With their infectious energy and nods to rock's greats, they have crafted a track that will surely resonate with fans of the genre. 

Hailing from Perth, Shortcut is a rock band that formed and honed their craft in a humble shed during the summer of 2021-22. Their influences, which include iconic acts like the Rolling Stones, The White Stripes, and The Strokes, are clearly evident in their music, and 'Rat Race' is a prime example.

The track kicks off with an infectious guitar riff that immediately grabs your attention and sends you back to the iconic era of 60's rock and roll. The raw and gritty guitar tones bring to mind the garage rock revival of the early 2000s, while the pulsating rhythm section drives the song forward with an undeniable energy. The vocals have a charismatic swagger, drawing inspiration from the rock legends that came before them, yet adding their own unique flavour to the mix.

'Rat Race' is expertly recorded and mixed by Rob Grant at Poons Head Studio (Tame Impala, Eskimo Joe), capturing the band's live energy and translating it into 3 minutes and 14 seconds of joy. The production maintains a raw and organic quality, giving the track an authentic feel to it's influence while still sounding polished and well-balanced. I can imagine this would have been a fun one to lay down.

What sets 'Rat Race' apart is its ability to capture the essence of classic garage rock and nostalgic rock and roll while infusing it with a contemporary sound. The songwriting is catchy and memorable, with a chorus that will have you singing along after just a few listens. It's a testament to Shortcut's ability to pay homage to their influences while crafting their own identity within the genre.

I'm excited to see what this Perth-based band has in store for the future!

Keeley Connolly