Daniela Picks: Ra Ra Riot
photo: doron guild
I discovered Ra Ra Riot in the summer of 2007, when my editor at the time handed me their just released self-titled EP to review. While the magazine I wrote that review sadly no longer exists, I still hung on to that CD. Although the EP only contained 6 songs and had a somewhat unpolished edge (due to the self-produced effort), I still thought that this band had quite a bit of promise for one that had formed as early as 2006.
A common trend these days is up and coming indie rock bands that are often the product of college kids coming together and jamming out at local venues (Vampire Weekend, anyone?). Ra Ra Riot is not an exception to the rule; they got their start playing around Syracuse University. Their energetic live shows were what got them noticed and they’ve gone on to open for bands like Art Brut and the Editors.
If I had to compare them to anyone, it would most likely be The Shins. Personally, along with their upbeat indie beats, I’ve always enjoyed when a band makes good use of string instruments. Ra Ra Riot is able to incorporate the use of violin and cello in their songs consistently, adding a nice little twist to their music.
Their debut album, The Rhumb Line, was released in August of this year. While it has newer versions of songs from the EP, including my favorite, “Dying is Fine”, there also new tracks that show how the band has expanded musically since 2007. While I have yet to see them live, if they make their way to Austin, I’ll be sure to try and catch them.
MP3> Ra Ra Riot ‘Oh, La’
