A number of well-known rock bands have had their start in Copenhagen, Denmark, and Reptile Youth are following the trend. They’re a pop rock pair who have made a reputation for themselves throughout Europe. “Black Swan Born White” sets the tempo for the record, with synth over a catchy beat that bops alongside a Muse-esque vocal style. The chorus is memorable and the pace of the track remains light-hearted, although lyrically the subject matter is a bit dark. The third song, “Dead End” starts slowly but gains momentum as our vocalist’s lyrics take a religious turn. If the listener didn’t know better, they might honestly mistake this man for a younger Bono, as the two sound nearly identical if Bono were known to sing on rave-style dance tracks.
“Speeddance” is exactly what it sounds like; a bass thumping techno massacre that gets a bit strange at times in a way that is difficult to label as good or bad. Reptile Youth’s singer, however, has the ability to go along with the music from very pop back to rock and on this song, he perfectly displays his eccentricity. This album is reminiscent of ‘80s dance and pop music from bands like The Cure or The Human League. The seventh song, “Shooting Up Sunshine” is an elated ride of a song describing the perfect day. The words to the track seem to have a dual meaning in the sense that you are not sure if this song is referencing drugs or simply a good day.
“Heart Blood Beat” and “Fear,” the last two songs on Reptile Youth’s first release, remain true to the record’s motif by staying super beat-oriented throughout their lengths. Their self-titled debut is upbeat and interesting, capturing elements from both genres from which they claim inspiration. American fans of the groups listed above are sure to accept with open arms the music that Reptile Youth are capable of orchestrating.
In A Word: Entrancing
