What started off as the solo project of Melbourne artist Andrew McSweeney, Dirty Rascal has since grown into a dynamic gathering of some of the country’s best musicians. Their music feels equal parts grounded and explorative; it’s rooted in rock and alt-country, but reaches far wider.
With the release of their debut album, You Be The King, they immediately established the versatility and brilliance of their songwriting. If you’re not already familiar with this band, we strongly recommend you dive into this album – with each listen, you’ll gain something new.
On their debut album, You Be The King, Melbourne-based outfit Dirty Rascal prove the incredible versatility of their songwriting.
Throughout the album, Dirty Rascal blend elements of rock, country, pop, blues, funk, and folk to craft a sound uniquely their own. With rich, textured instrumental arrangements and spirited vocal melodies, You Be The King is brimming with endearing sonic gems.
Album opener Be A Lion quickly establishes the scope of the record. The song is a well thought-out, soulful number that thrives in male/female vocal harmonies. From here, the band navigate myriad sonic territories—they never sit in one place for too long.
On What Would Love Do, Dirty Rascal rope elements of dub into their sprawling sonic vision. Self Made Man is one of the album’s tenderest cuts, showcasing the incredible adaptability of the album, while Rolling Thunder is a crunching blues number.
By the time No Compromise reaches its epic conclusion, you’ll have been roped in completely by Dirty Rascal’s captivating music.
This Friday, Dirty Rascal will be unveiling their new video for What Would Love Do. Judging by everything we’ve heard from these guys so far, I think we can safely expect plenty more quality material.
In the meantime, do yourself a favour and listen to You Be The King above.
