ROTHCO release debut EP Fools Gold on June 6.
It starts off promisingly, with the title track having a gritty rhythm section which is overlayed with synths. The delivery is very angsty, almost like a half rap and at times reminds me of a grittier Taller Than Stories. It’s an edgy reminder to be human in a world of machines.
It’s an eerie EP with You’re Not The Only One sending a shiver down my spine with its over-simplified sound. The bass provides the majority of the backing adding intensity to the haunting delivery of lyrics like ‘she said ssh’ with the song kicking in half way through with the screams of ‘saviour, pardon, staring at the sun, waking, darling, not the only one.’ The lyrics are quite repetitive which is usually a bugbear for me but in this track it actually works well, at times reminding me of an 80s cheesy horror track and emphasising the intensity.
The licks and effects in closer Jackson are really cool and make it feel like you’re on some kind of weird trip.
The EP would be great live as it’s definitely an in-person atmospheric vibe with the chanting lyrics and spoken-word eulogies throughout. I’m really impressed that this is their debut EP.
The drums and bass are a focus throughout on the instrumentation. It’s pretty simple but this is good as it makes the lyrics and vocal delivery stand out.