RADKEY play Soda Bar Sep. 19, Alex’s Bar Sep. 20, The Echo Sep. 21 Photo: Vinny Dingo
Band of brothers Radkey will be releasing their debut album Dark Black Makeup on Aug. 21. This band of punks don’t simply cater to one genre, but rather dive into whatever party they are feeling at the moment, whether it’s funky, groovy, dark or upbeat.
This up-and-coming band has captured a deep, dark sound that truly contrasts their youthful look in the best way. If their new album is any hint of what to expect during a live performance, audiences are sure to lose their mind. The song “Dark Black Makeup” is, without a doubt, something of a sinister anthem for this generation.
Having played festivals throughout Europe and hitting up some U.S. shows, Radkey will be headlining their first U.S. album tour. Their tour will be reaching SoCal for three consecutive nights, Sep. 19 at San Diego’s Soda Bar, Sep. 20 at Alex’s Bar in Long Beach and Sep. 21 at the Echo in LA.
“We did a headlining thing in the UK, so we’re really excited to do one in the U.S.,” Isaiah Radke said. “We’re pretty excited about being able to do our full set every night. The whole night you’re basically in charge, so there’s no worries about going over time or being in the way of the headliner. That mindset is just not there, it’s pretty cool.”
The band, consisting of Dee Radke (guitar / vocals), Isaiah J. Radke III (bass / vocals) and Solomon Radke (drums), is truly entertaining the idea of a new genre that is nearly unplacable. Dee’s voice gives the illusion of something escaping the 50’s rockabilly era, while the guitar riffs, bass and drums maintain the heavy punk background.
Their song “Love Spills” just came out with a new music video that completely captures the angst-filled feel of the lyrics. “Love Spills” is a perfect execution of Dee’s belting baritone voice matched with the incredibly sing-in-the-shower catchy lyrics.
With new lyrics, an unforgettable sound and some experience with musical videography, Radkey is set for their first headlining show in the U.S.. Having predominantly played in the UK, however, leaves some wonder as to the reactions from U.S. crowds.
“The people in Europe, the music fans, are really cool and open-minded. So it’s a good vibe over there,” Isaiah said. “People in Europe and England really appreciate American rock music a lot more, so they’re a lot more likely to freak out and have a good time, whereas American crowds seem to be a little more reserved. Maybe they don’t want to be seen losing their shit and having a good time, like they won’t look super cool or something.”
Having been homeschooled, the brothers found focus and passion when creating music.
“It was just one of the things where we wanted to do something productive together,” Isaiah said. “We all do everything together. I wrote most of the album’s lyrics and Dee wrote a lot of the riffs and melodies. It’s a big mix. It’s pretty weird to have an album out for the first time, so we’re pretty excited to have people hear it.”