Making a name for themselves across the indie scene on the West Coast, alternative/indie rock band Rainbow City Park are displaying rich desire in their newest single, “Complicate This.”
Rainbow City Park first rose in 2021, formed by guitarist Chris O’Keefe, before adding on drummer Ryan Williams, lead singer and guitarist Dani Judith, and guitarist and vocalist Nick Nassab. The band emerged among the North Californian rock scene, playing shows across the region and opening for The Japanese House at the Farm-to-Fork festival in San Francisco in 2022, before opening for a number of other artists earlier this year.
“Complicate This” teases at the energy they wish to bring on their upcoming debut EP releasing in early 2025. The single, along with the remainder of the EP, was recorded at the Panoramic House with producers Mike Davis and Richie Smith.
The four-piece band are inspired by the scene they emerged from as they draw on the old and the new to deliver a modern twist on a rock ballad. They merge ‘90s alternative rock electric guitars à la Pixies with modern femme-fronted indie pop vocals, creating similar sonic landscapes to that of Julia Jacklin, Phoebe Bridgers, Snail Mail or Soccer Mommy.
The track relies on distorted, washy guitar riffs that drive its energy. With Williams’ early pop-punk drums and Judith’s delicate voice, the band delivers a commendable and electrifying tone. The track also features an incredible guitar solo leading the bridge into the final verse, very akin to ‘80s rock ballads.
“Complicate This” is a track that knows itself. The writers draw on the frustrating and daring steps taken in desire. Judith asks, “Who’s gonna be the first one to make a move?” The single tiptoes around butterflies and the juvenile flirtation that stems from asking, “are you on the same page as me?” The bridge finally turns this curiosity into a pleading desire with, “I want you to want me / Is that so bad?”
This track displays Rainbow City Park’s knack for relatable and heartfelt songwriting, as well as their head-banging melodies, only leaving listeners begging to hear more on their upcoming EP.
Rainbow City Park is set to release an accompanying music video on October 18th, described as dreamy and atmospheric. Finally, they are set to tour alongside The Moondrops across California following the EP’s release.
FOLLOW RAINBOW CITY PARK: Spotify // YouTube // Instagram // Facebook // Website // Twitter
