Genre-fusing Denver fourpiece Rado kick off their brand new album with a slick and stylish indie tune – the intriguing and funk-driven Run and Hyde laying down the foundations for a characterful and eclectic Baker’s Measurements.
Evolving from quirky and confident to heartfelt and soulful, both lyrically and performatively, Run and Hyde depicts humble vocal harmonies, great hooks, strong riffs and a bold rock guitar sound. This combination of traits and influences feels remisncent of the likes of The Cat Empire or Sublime in a way, but as we progress through the album, Rado are quick to further reassert their originality.
Tea For Two sees us shift into a smooth and joyous realm of great guitar work and mild psychedelic twangs. The band utilise musical creativity as much so as lyrical – long introductions and purposeful breaks are all part of the process, and that quality is refreshing.
By now, these layers of voice, almost whispered on occasion, are unmistakable as Rado. Even as we move into the reggae rhythm and warped tones of The Twist, that aspect continues to speak volumes. The track’s latter half really leans into the Sublime ska energy and optimism once, but it’s an unpredictable structure, and a further testament to the playful creativity of Rado.
Conceptually things reach intriguing peaks for the new vocal lead and story of Thank You Mr. Science. Lyrically dense and both provocative and clever, the song feels like a contemporary outpouring of rightful appreciation, but again makes sure to weave in those quirky references and personality points to keep you on your toes. And as ever, the guitar solo hits at just the right moment.
Track five is the more mellow and sultry My Song – an intimate and warming presentation, both personal and poetic, with a great long-form melody, a mighty build up to the chorus, and another satisfying guitar solo.
After this, the rhythmically chaotic brightness of Back Nine lifts the mood in an instant – a swirling chaos of skilful musicianship and changing tempos, consistently evolving across an impressive near fourteen-minute lifespan. The band really find their groove here, literally and figuratively, embracing the moment and highlighting their passion and ability for jamming as a united artistic force.
Wrapping things up is the smooth-funk aura of River – bass lines and nostalgic keys painting a yesteryear scene, complete with a bluesy vocal and soulfully poetic storyline. This one marks a brilliant closer, one final highlight, and rightfully one of the band’s most streamed songs to date.
Eclectic yet well-rooted amidst identity and a clear love for the process – Baker’s Measurements introduces Rado as a band who’ve undeniably found their flow and purpose as musicians. It’s a likable project, with a humble yet distinct tone, and it’s loaded with interesting alternative hits.
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