EP REVIEW: Waves Collide – Bad Rabbits

It is often said that we are now living in a post-genre world. Artists can now express themselves freely without being shoved into an awkward ‘box’ in order to make it. However, Boston-based trio BAD RABBITS are the exception that proves the rule. Formed in 2007, the five piece band have experimented with many different genres, including R&B and folk music. Their new EP, entitled Waves Collide, is a cover EP, its five songs flirting between pop, rock and alternative. Following on from their four albums, including their 2018 release Mimi, this EP is ready to show another new side to the ever-evolving BAD RABBITS.

Starting off Waves Collide is a cover of Human Nature, originally sung by Michael Jackson. The instrumental intro is bound to instantly capture the audience’s attention, as it is upbeat and has a funk edge to it. Most covers of beloved pop songs, especially Michael Jackson songs, tend to try to imitate him. However, BAD RABBITS take a different approach. Thanks to Fredua Boakye‘s smooth, gospel-like vocals, this is a an excellent cover, that both respects and puts a little spin on the original. the production is another thing to be applauded. The funky bass does not get drowned out by the drums or the guitars. In fact, you can clearly hear each instrument.

If you thought that the Michael Jackson cover set the tone for the EP, think again. 1979 by THE SMASHING PUMPKINS is next. BAD RABBITS easily morph into alternative rock. This EP is proving to be as bright and colourful as the cover art. Particular praise must go to the drums and the backing vocals, as they are perfectly complimented. The excellent production means that this EP does not feel disjointed. This is not an easy thing to do, and even the best producers struggle. However, this is definitely not the case for the band. BAD RABBITS slow things down a bit for the third song on the EP. Sextape by DEFTONES is a seductively smooth cover, The production makes sure that it does not lose focus and it does not feel disjointed.

Soul is the next genre to tackle, and BAD RABBITS do it surprisingly well. Covering Walkin’ On The Moon by American singer/songwriter THE DREAM, the band liven things up. It is a sharp contrast to the previous song. However, it also feels like the sun shining bright after a particularly cloudy day. It is what we need in these times. The final song is a cover of Love On the Brain, which was originally sung by RIHANNA. A mid-tempo R&B song, the band really make it their own. They bring it their all on this song, making sure the EP closes out with a bang. The vocals are the real star, while the instruments perfectly complement them. The production makes sure the song is recognisable whilst also being in line with the BAD RABBITS ‘sound’.

Surprisingly, the mix of genres is not disjointing; in fact, they perfectly slide into each other thanks to the perfect production. Across Waves Collide the vocals and instrumentation are amazing. If you are a new fan, this is the perfect start to jumping on the BAD RABBITS train, and it is sure to delight older fans. Full of beloved covers that the band make there own, BAD RABBITS prove that genre limitations truly do not exist.

Rating: 8/10

Waves Collide is out now via self release.

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