WRITTEN BY CHERRYLLE URBANO
I’m thrilled to revisit Rec Hall with the release of their newest EP, Otherworld. If you’ve been keeping up, you might remember my previous article about their track “Olive,” which is the third song on this EP.
Listening to the entire EP, I found myself captivated by “How Long” and realized that Otherworld feels like its own little movie. Everyone’s interpretation might differ, but for me, it was like living out a summer coming-of-age story—falling in love, being my own main character, and experiencing those transformative, cinematic moments. While I’ve always had a soft spot for “Olive,” the EP’s opener, “Delay,” hit me like an explosive introduction to this dreamlike journey.
Bassist Ben Tyrell perfectly captures the essence of the EP, saying, “With Otherworld, we wanted to dip our heads under the surface. See the glowing colors, the life overlooked, the vibrations inaudible from shore.” And they absolutely delivered. Listening to this EP feels like entering a vivid, otherworldly dream.
The record is packed with youthful energy, chill vibes, and a sense of warmth that feels like a cozy summer evening during a cold spell. The band explored a more nuanced and experimental soundscape this time around, blending frenetic live drums, looping guitars, shimmering high vocals, and buzzing, phasing basslines. As Tyrell explains, even the lyrics aim to transport listeners: alien worlds in “Bored with My Feet,” spiraling life reflections in “Delay,” and the thrill of a transformative night in “Joyride.”
I can’t recommend this EP enough. Otherworld is a sonic experience that you’ll want to immerse yourself in. Plus, Rec Hall is hitting the road this fall on the Way Too Late Tour with Ax and the Hatchetmen! If you get the chance, go see them live—and enjoy the music on my behalf.