New York, USA-based indie alternative artist Subway Rat, real name David Polanco, recently hit my radar through his second album Captain of the Football Team. I was so taken with his sound, I decided to also share his debut release from earlier last year. It’s called Stand Clear of the Closing Doors.
By Graeme Smith
Stand Clear of the Closing Doors is something of a concept album, telling the story of a young man in the big city struggling with a broken heart and unrequited love. Musically, it draws influence from the likes of LCD Soundsystem and The Strokes, so, much like Captain of the Football Team, it’s one for lovers of the ’00s indie rock scene.
The album opens with Tell Me What To Do and it’s a lively start that wastes no time getting right into it. David’s vocal style instantly sets him out from the crowd, as does his ability to weave modern hip-hop elements into his take on the retro indie rock sound. Its passionate chorus is a real stand out.
Rendezvous was Subway Rat’s first single release and it’s easy to see why with its vibrant and catchy style. The Strokes influences are instantly apparent during its jangly opening before it settles into a melancholic, romantic tale in its verse. Then it gets us moving in its chorus.
Schoolyard Crush gives us a funky groove while Tomorrow is a slower, reflective moment that is full of heartache. How Much Was My Fault? livens things back up with a pacey arrangement that doesn’t lose any of the emotional impact of the previous tracks. It’s a highlight.
Espresso Martini is sultry and groovy, enriched with a beat that’s perfect for the dancefloor. Mouth 2 Mouth is a slow-burning number with some lovely electronic overtones. I Guess I’m Wrong is a stripped-back and self-effacing highlight.
V Day is brooding and has a touch of the timeless about it. Ruby’s canters along with a raw energy. Don’t Answer Me sees David’s vocals take on a pleading quality as they deliver a wistful story. LMK closes the album with a track that draws on decades of rock, creating a bright and bombastic final highlight.
With his producer Paco Lee, David has written over 100 songs, so I suspect we’ll be seeing a lot more releases from them this year. I can’t wait to hear them!
You can check out Stand Clear of the Closing Doors below.
