RVG - “Perfect Day”

SXSW 2023 - OEB Score: 8; Popularity Index: 4

Pairs Well With…Courtney Barnett, Sleater Kinney, ANOHNI

Two sides come together so naturally in RVG’s music. Instrumentally, alt country and classic indie rock influences form the foundation of their last record, 2020’s Feral. It’s a warm, relatively light vibe, mostly sticking around comforting, mid-tempo rhythms. On the other hand, Romy Vager’s vocal tone provides natural density and seriousness, a low, rich soundscape that anchors RVG down to the bottom of the sea. Her melodies are equally dramatic, informed by both punk and operatic paths, raw and unique. Playing that against the breezy, easy-to-digest guitars and percussion creates a seamless blend rather than a clashing dichotomy. The Australian hopefully are working up a third full-length heading through SXSW this year (RVG’s debut LP A Quality of Mercy came out in 2017) as there is still room for growth here by broadening or deepening their stirring, melancholy core. (Kevin McStravick)