People listen to music for different reasons. Some listen for entertainment. Some listen because they are looking for a way to overcome life’s challenges and obstacles and find solidarity with other fans as well as the musicians. In the case of British rock band RXPTRS, their music serves both purposes. Yes, they are fun and entertaining. At the same time, this fascinating band makes a statement with their music and is not afraid to challenge their listeners to think about what’s going on around them.
RXPTRS (pronounced “Raptors”), is from Bristol in the UK. Band members include: Simon Roach (vocals); Ian Chadderton (guitars); Harley Watson (guitars); Sam Leworthy (bass); and Mat Capper (drums). This is a high-energy band that is known for its catchy riffs and unique and powerful vocals. The band is described as “fiercely creative, long-term friends set out with a sonic mission statement to not succumb to a single barrier, to push boundaries and go beyond the limit of genres, creating a raw sound that is unmistakably their own.” RXPTRS is a fun band that brings the energy with their music and live performances, but they are not afraid to push the envelope and make a statement.
The most recent release for RXPTRS, “The Horror Show (nobody puts nepo baby in a corner)”, dropped February 14th. I heard the song for the first time when I watched the video. At first, I thought it was fun and playful. But when I really listened to the lyrics and paid closer attention to the video the second time around, I realized there is a lot of deep meaning in both. “The Horror Show” is about the flaws in the music industry – struggles that artists face and the privilege and nepotism that hinder the creative process. It resonates with musicians and other artists who want their own voices to be heard and don’t want to conform to the status quo or what everyone else is doing.
“It’s a tongue in cheek love letter to the misfits and the marginalized, based on our experiences over the last couple years” says RXPTRS vocalist Simon Roach. “We wanted to shine a light on the absurdity of the industry and how it often sidelines genuine talent in favor of those with connections. It’s a story as old as time, but it still seems to surprise people. This song is our way of reclaiming our narrative.”
The chorus reflects the theme of the song:
“It’s a horror show
So cruel, you could beat a dog with a bone
You led the rats into my home
Hounds of hell don’t bark alone
It’s a horror show Blood debts you owe This scene is overrated This act is overblown”
“The Horror Show” was produced, mixed, and mastered by Oz Craggs at Hidden Track Studios. The first thing I heard in “The Horror Show” was that excellent guitar riff that hooks you in right away. The pace of the song picks up in the chorus and gets the listener’s head bobbing. Simon’s signature vocals bring the energy as always. “The Horror Show” is an awesome addition to this band’s catalog of interesting tunes.
The music video, directed by GLK Media, is perfect for the song's message. It incorporates a circus theme, with what appears to be either a director or someone from the industry stepping in and trying to change up what the band is doing to conform with certain trends or styles that are popular. The band revolts at the end, however, going against the changes, much to that person’s dismay. It’s a really fun and entertaining video, but it’s also a statement about the state of affairs in the music industry.
It's shaping up to be a great year for RXPTRS with new music and shows in the planning stages. Make sure to follow RXPTRS for all the latest news. You can check them out on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Linktree, and the band's website.
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