EP REVIEW: Cal Rifkin - Better Luck Next Year

Hailing from Washington DC Cal Rifkin are bringing the nineties back to life on their stunning new EP "Better Luck Next Year".

It's like taking a trip back to 1996 with their Britpop-laced vibe. Dreamy, hazy, and uptempo the EP features the stunning jangle of Teenage Fanclub comparable guitars and beautifully layered vocals reminiscent of Belle and Sebastian. It's an enticing mix of glorious alt-rock with a sprinkle of jangle pop, the simplicity of twee pop, and a hint of chamber pop in the form of its captivating vocal harmonies.

"Better Luck Next Year' is the perfect record to transition you into warmer, more laid-back summer days. A truly engulfing sound that will make you feel like you're a kid again laying on your bed headphones on, Walkman in hand listening to all your favourite C86 tunes.

Melodic and heartfelt, each track features melancholic themes of unrequited love, emotional turbulence, and heartache. Accepting that heartbreak is sometimes the best outcome in a relationship that is openly on a downward spiral. Conveying the pain at the idea of a former lover has moved on and the desire to meet that special someone to enjoy the simple things in life with. Cal Rifkin's aim is to write relatable lyrics that channel real emotions and give the listener food for thought. "Better Luck Next Year" delivers on this objective beautifully. Crafting a majestic set of songs for the heartbroken. It's a captivating rhythmic listen that is sure to pull at your heartstrings.

'Better Luck Next Year' is simple, uncomplicated power pop at its very finest. Delivering hard-hitting themes in a chilled-out way that doesn't take itself too seriously. Reviving the 90s and producing some of the most magnificent music you'll hear this year.