album: The Back Catalogue Vol. 421 - R.L. Kelly
Nearly six years ago, R.L. Kelly aka Rachel Levy released Life’s A Bummer — a six-track EP that turned the worst moments of life into beautiful, and unique musical musings. As the artist prepares to release new material, Lauren Records has announced the release of The Back Catalogue Vol. 421, an album which compiles tracks from Life’s a Bummer, a previous split with Alex G, and tracks from another split with Spencer Radcliffe. The release comes ahead of a new album and a name change, as the band will no longer go by a moniker, instead creating music under Levy’s name. For those that have yet to discover the bewildering delight that is an R.L. Kelly release, this releases marks the perfect introduction.
Opening with “You’re Not the Only Monster From Hell,” a single off Life’s a Bummer, you’re immediately aware of just how special Levy’s music is. Electronic drums go back and forth, meshing with a languid string pattern that leads to a rising of instrumental effects, surrounding you in an almost ominous wall of noise. And throughout it all, Levy repeats in a mantra-like fashion, “You’re not the only monster from hell.” And while you may initially believe that you can glean an album’s identity from its first track, Levy provides continual surprises. From organ-like effects and whispered vocals that accompany a tale of unshakable sadness (“Woke Up Feeling Sad”) to a brief, acoustic-driven tale that’s powerfully subtle, the collection of singles on The Back Catalogue Vol. 421 is a perfect precursor to whatever wondrous surprises Levy may unveil next.
Tour w/ Spencer Radcliffe:
3.15 Los Angeles, CA @ The Rec Center
3.16 Encino, CA @ Public Pool Gallery
3.17 Fresno, CA @ La Maison Kabob
3.19 Oakland, CA @ Starline Social Club
3.20 Redding, CA @ Fratelli’s
3.22 San Diego, CA @ Title TK