One thing’s certain: New Rock City doesn’t quit. Their latest project, Radio 85, began its long journey back in August of 2020. Despite the chaos—the pandemic’s peaks, election noise, and every hurdle thrown their way—the band stayed put in their beloved New York, pushing through the grind. Four long years later, they wrapped up the record, refusing to rush what had to simmer. Through it all, they stuck to their guns, letting the ups and downs shape their sound. Persistence? They’ve got it in spades, and it’s all there in Radio 85.
Since forming in 2012, New Rock City has carved out a distinct sound in the underground of New York City. They mix an eclectic blend of new wave, punk rock, pop, and arena rock, effortlessly moving from the raw edge of rock ’n’ roll to smooth, dream-like pop melodies. Their tracks often erupt into chaotic, psychedelic breakdowns, laced with fierce guitar riffs from Kick and anchored by the solid rhythm section of Tim Kuhl and Steve Conroy. Rossano’s versatile vocals add a touch of euphoria, reminiscent of Pretenders meets Joan Jett, with shades of Billy Idol, No Doubt, and Divinyls.
New Rock City rolls forward with relentless energy, pushing through with their bold, melodic guitar riffs that rise to a feverish peak. The edgy, versatile vocals deliver that gritty rock ‘n’ roll attitude, while the band masterfully carries each track from start to finish with precision. The infectious momentum of their music keeps you hooked; their ability to balance raw rock power with moments of emotional pop and atmospheric haze shows off their fearless creativity and steadfast commitment to their sound. It’s rock with heart and hard edges, much like New York City itself. Radio 85, the full-length album by New Rock City, earnestly recalls the punk glory of 80s New York.
The album opens with the introductory Nice to Meet Ya, a song that brims with rebellion and defiance, touching on betrayal and manipulation. It’s about rejecting false promises, seeking truth and self-reliance. It’s about taking control, breaking free from procrastination, and asserting independence as they embark on a new journey. It’s Hard to Be a Rockstar deals with the tension between independence and support: Stubborn? Emotionally distant? It’s time to face those challenges, so take a few spoonfuls of tough love. Despite the struggle, the message is clear: keep moving, even when it’s hard to walk the path ahead.
Da Ratman! presents a shadowy figure who manipulates and controls, lurking in the darkness, able to escape captivity and set traps for those unaware. The speaker warns of his power, urging caution and trust in equal measure, while acknowledging both light and darkness in people. A Phone Call captures a frantic world spiraling into chaos—fires, looting, and madness surround the speaker as they seek refuge and trust in a collapsing world. The repeated plea to “take the ride” underscores a desire to escape, but fear and uncertainty keep the tension high.
Radio 85 takes a trip down memory lane, drenched in nostalgia. It’s about looking back on a time when life felt smooth, the music from “Radio 85” carrying the weight of youthful dreams. Guitars, cassettes, and vinyl spin through the verses, pulling at the bittersweet feeling of a past that can’t quite be grasped again. Meanwhile, Free World hits with a punch. The speaker’s defiant, ready to rock against a backdrop of chaos and conflict. Rejecting the violence and venom around them, they choose love, independence, and the freedom to live authentically. It’s a rebellious anthem, driven by classic rock grit.
The Frame plays with the push and pull of love, its tension heavy as the speaker demands all or nothing. They’re done with halfway feelings and manipulation, opting to step out of the haze of uncertainty. There’s strength in reclaiming independence while recognizing the need for real connection. Different Love dives into self-doubt, a time when the speaker was lost in fear and self-hatred. Over time, they come to realize love isn’t one-size-fits-all. The journey from needing external approval to finding strength in self-acceptance and faith in their own worth is a powerful arc of growth.
Silver Lining Trap expresses a sense of struggle and frustration. It’s about feeling trapped, wanting to break free from their past and breathe in freedom, yet they find themselves falling into sadness and rules they can’t escape. They plead for help, feeling lost and crawling towards an inevitable downfall, but hoping for someone to hold them back from the edge. Themes of personal turmoil, longing for change, and the fight against emotional traps are central to the song.
Rollin’ reflects a carefree, rebellious energy that embraces life in New York City. Confident in their direction, they revel in the freedom of rock ‘n’ roll and the power of music to dispel doubts. They challenge the idea of being a rebel, while expressing a desire for self-expression and recognition. The song conveys themes of independence, self-assurance, and the exhilaration of being part of a larger, untamed groove.
Radio 85 is out now via RatMan Records. Listen to the album at the link below and order here.
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