B-Side Guys

On December 8, 2023, the dynamic duo Rebel Kicks, comprised of brothers Anthony and Steven Babino, unveiled their latest EP, ‘somewhere.in.between.’, marking a vibrant addition to their growing discography. This EP, lasting a concise 16 minutes and 49 seconds across five tracks, is not just a collection of songs but a vivid showcase of the band’s versatility and evolution.

The EP begins with “The Girl In Barcelona,” a track that immediately stands out with its infectious groove and vivid storytelling. This song is an aural journey to Catalonia, imbued with the spirit of liberation and joy. The Babino brothers have managed to capture the essence of a fleeting, beautiful encounter and translate it into a rhythm that resonates with anyone who’s ever found unexpected happiness in a foreign land. The animated music video accompanying this track further amplifies its vibrant narrative, bringing to life the energy and color of Barcelona.

“Past Life,” another standout single, dives into the mystical realm of human connections and the concept of soulmates. Inspired by the red string theory, this track is a masterful blend of emotive lyrics and poignant melodies. The song explores the depths of a past life connection, resonating with listeners through its intricate storytelling. The track’s ethereal sound, combined with the band’s skillful harmonies, creates a hauntingly beautiful experience that lingers long after the last note.

The EP’s sonic landscape is a testament to Rebel Kicks’ ability to weave various influences into a cohesive sound. From the pulsating rhythms of “The Girl In Barcelona” to the introspective melodies of “Past Life,” the EP spans a spectrum of emotions, encapsulating the essence of their musical journey. The fusion of synths, big harmonies, and guitar work creates an infectious sound that’s innovative yet familiar, aligning perfectly with Glide Magazine’s praise of their ability to craft mainstream-friendly yet distinctly unique songs.

Rebel Kicks’ background, growing up with a jazz musician father and honing their harmony and songcraft from a young age, is evident in their music. The brothers have successfully merged their influences from jazz, classic rock, and R&B to create a sound that is uniquely theirs. This amalgamation of genres is not just a musical choice but a reflection of their personal journey and growth as artists.

Their recent electrifying performance at The Cutting Room in NYC, just before the release of ‘somewhere.in.between.’, demonstrated their prowess as live performers. It also served as a testament to their growth, having shared bills with prominent artists like Foo Fighters, Blink-182, and Incubus, and featured on channels like MTV and Showtime. The live renditions of the EP’s material, particularly the standouts “The Girl In Barcelona” and “Past Life,” undoubtedly captivated the audience, showcasing the band’s dynamic stage presence and the depth of their music.

‘somewhere.in.between.’ is more than just an EP; it’s a narrative of Rebel Kicks’ journey as musicians and storytellers. It’s a celebration of their growth, a nod to their past, and a glimpse into their future potential. With this latest release, the Babino brothers have not only solidified their place in the contemporary music landscape but have also opened a new chapter in their artistic journey.

Listeners of ‘somewhere.in.between.’ are treated to a rich musical experience that is both reflective and forward-looking. The EP’s focus tracks, “The Girl In Barcelona” and “Past Life,” are perfect embodiments of Rebel Kicks’ ability to navigate the complex terrain of pop music with grace and originality. As the EP finds its way into the playlists of listeners worldwide, it stands as a vibrant reminder of the power of music to capture the nuances of human experience and the endless possibilities that lie in the fusion of genres and influences. With ‘somewhere.in.between.’, Rebel Kicks has not only delivered an engaging musical experience but has also set the stage for their continued evolution and success in the music industry.