The Rose Affair‘s self-titled debut EP has been released this December, and it provides us with an introductory illustration of what this indie quartet’s potentially eminent style is all about – all whilst channelling a subtle hint of melodramatics that is. The EP itself has an entirety of five tracks for us to appreciate, two of which have been released prior as singles. – ‘Elizabeth’ and ‘Kill Us When We’re Famous.’
Opening track ‘Alba’ creates a cynical feel of heartbreak and distrust, yet in a surprisingly buoyant and catchy manner. The variance in pace throughout this track adds to the notion of the twist The Rose Affair creates on those common angsty indie anthems which are ever on the frequent rise. ‘You don’t need acid / you are acid’ – this lyrical metaphor repeated in Alba aids in the questioning of whether this track is a plea for forgiveness or a triumphant yet abrasive farewell message to an ex-lover.
Following ‘Elizabeth’, ‘Yeah Say Sorry’ and ‘Kill Us When We’re Famous’ all lead in the previous’ shadow with an emotionally wrought undertone of anger, love and lust, whilst heightening track-to-track with vexation. Almost enough in fact, to leave us with feelings of frustration on behalf of the individual these tracks are aimed towards. ‘Kill Us When We’re Famous’ is certainly one to rev up the ambiance and kick-start the foot-tapping momentum in anyone.
Closing with the more solemn yet dynamic piece ‘XO’, (no, not the infamous track by Queen B herself) a track dissected to showcase themes of desperation and uncertainty, The Rose Affair’s self-titled debut EP can clearly be summed up as one to display a fragment of vehemence. This band from Cambridge are noticeably building up a commotion within many music scenes, and if after taking a listen to the EP, you are left aching to hear more of the guys, be sure to head over to their social media accounts and scout out whether they’re performing near you soon.
Words by Georgina Truss