B-Side Guys

Subway Rat, the artistic moniker of David Polanco, makes a triumphant return with his sophomore album, “Captain of the Football Team.” This highly anticipated follow-up to his successful debut, which garnered over a million streams, has already made waves in the indie alternative scene. Released under Rat Tooth Records and recorded at Lounge Studios, the album is a culmination of Subway Rat’s journey, blending his unique sound, which interweaves pop, rock, and hip-hop influences, with a newfound depth in lyrical creativity and studio craftsmanship.

Spanning ten tracks with a total listening time of 30 minutes, “Captain of the Football Team” is a breakup power pop anthem infused with an NYC alternative twist. Subway Rat’s approach to music is both raw and polished, featuring high-fidelity production while retaining the underground lo-fi vocal style that distinguishes him in the contemporary music landscape.

The album kicks off with “Outta Town,” a track that sets the tone with its energetic rock vibes and early 2000s indie-rock nostalgia. The song captures the essence of heartbreak and the longing for reconciliation with its poignant lyrics: “Give me a chance, I want to mend it.” The chorus, “I ran you outta town,” paired with snappy guitar riffs and a suave bassline, creates a dynamic and replay-worthy opener.

“Hope!” continues the theme of longing and remembrance with its rock-forward aesthetic. The repetitive plea, “I hope you don’t forget me,” resonates deeply, striking a chord with listeners who have experienced the bittersweet pangs of love lost.

“Crazy” marks a shift in the album’s soundscape, showcasing Subway Rat’s versatility. With a production style reminiscent of Future Islands, the track combines a throbbing bassline with string accents, culminating in the catchy refrain, “I’m still crazy for you.” This song is an ode to unpretentious love, dismissing superficiality in favor of genuine connection.

In “Queens Kids,” Subway Rat skillfully blends hip-hop rhythms with acoustic melodies. The lyrics nostalgically recall childhood memories, painting vivid pictures of familial bonds and youthful dreams. This track stands out for its lyrical depth and the seamless fusion of diverse musical styles.

The middle of the album features “Moon” and “Corner Café,” offering a mix of alt-rock and power-pop accessibility. “Corner Café” in particular invokes nostalgia with its reflective chorus, “those were the good old days,” continuing the album’s theme of reminiscence and longing.

“Nostalgia” emerges as one of the album’s standout tracks, with its pulsating bass and glimmering synths underpinning a multi-layered vocal hook that is both energetic and emotive. The track is a testament to Subway Rat’s ability to create infectious melodies that linger long after the song ends.

The closing track, “Modern Lovers,” brings the album full circle, exploring the complexities of contemporary relationships. The lyrics, “not even sleeping in the same room,” capture the emotional distance that can arise in modern love, set against the backdrop of an infectious rock arrangement.

Throughout the album, Subway Rat’s lyrical prowess shines. His words are not just sung; they are felt. They capture the universal human experiences of love, loss, and the passage of time, all while maintaining a distinct personal touch. His ability to infuse his lyrics with both personal anecdotes and broader societal commentary is remarkable, making “Captain of the Football Team” an album that is as thoughtful as it is enjoyable.

Musically, the album is a rich tapestry of sounds and influences. From post-punk to soul, and from Lou Reed to The Strokes and hip-hop, Subway Rat navigates these genres with ease, creating a sound that is uniquely his. The incorporation of advanced studio techniques elevates the album, showcasing Subway Rat’s growth as an artist and producer.

In conclusion, “Captain of the Football Team” is a significant milestone in Subway Rat’s burgeoning career. It is an album that captures the essence of his artistic identity while showcasing his evolution. With its poetic storytelling, creative soundscapes, and tasteful blend of various musical influences, Subway Rat delivers an album that is not only a testament to his talent but also a compelling narrative of the human experience. This album solidifies Subway Rat’s position in the indie alternative scene and is sure to resonate with his growing fan base in Brooklyn, Latin America, the UK, and beyond.