The Royston Club - “The Backburner”

SXSW 2022 - OEB Score: 9; Popularity Index: 3

Pairs Well With…The Killers, Sam Fender, DMAs

The Royston Club’s melodic strength stands out across their first two EPs, embedded in both upbeat pop/rock numbers and tender indie balladry. Bright guitar lines drive the bulk of their early tracks, tight and sunny, but delivered with garage pop personality. Naturally anthemic, The Royston Club have crafted a strong collection of instant sing-a-longs, infectious without overstating their hook-filled welcome. Latest EP lying here, wasting away shows off the Welsh quartet’s wide-ranging songwriting as well, from crunchy, hand-clap rock number “Mrs Narcissistic” to spoken-word-versed consciousness of “Infatuated” to driving indie rock track “Cold Sweats”. There’s life in The Royston Club’s music, a youthful exuberance that makes these singles impactful from the start. Catch The Royston Club at Swan Dive on Thursday night presented by Focus Wales. (Kevin McStravick)