Ra Ra Riot Interview

Ra Ra Riot has been buzzing since their EP release in 2007, after several successful stints at SXSW and the full-length release The Rhumb Line, are headlining their very own tour that comes through Dallas October 2^nd. They took time out of their hectic schedule to give me a brief interview.

How'd you come up with the name Ra Ra Riot?

It's a name that a friend of Milo's came up with. We borrowed it at first, and then couldn't think of a better one.

What or who has had the biggest influence on your music?

My friends have had the biggest impact on my music. Most music that I listen to or am inspired by, I've learned about from friends or has been written by them.

What's the most rock-star thing you have done on tour?

Probably crowd surfing at Bowery ballroom.

And the least rock-star thing done on tour?

I've fallen asleep during sound check more than once, sometimes on top of empty cases. (Also could work for most rock-star thing I've done, depending on your perspective)

 What's been the biggest challenge in your musical career?

Defining a unique identity.

 Which band(s) do you dream of going on tour with?

Most often I dream of hanging out with Sting circa 1981. Or John Lennon anytime after 1965.

Why should we pick up The Rhumb Line?

It's only what? $10? You can't find a better value for the jams we packed on there. Except for maybe the original Jock Jams.

Why should we go to the show October 2nd?

We always have a lot of fun when we play so it's bound to be a good time.

Ra Ra Riot- The Rhumb Line

Ra Ra Riots debut album is full of promise and beauty. Buzz has been building on the Syracuse-based band since their self-titled EP released in 2007 and several impressive showings at SXSW, and with The Rhumb Line, Ra Ra Riot proves they are worthy of the hype. Though they mix equal parts Vampire Weekend and Arcade Fire, their sound is one of their very own. The album swells up and simmers down seamlessly, always demanding one’s attention. The Rhumb Line might just be the ultimate “study rock” record of the year. The opener “Ghost Under Rocks” builds and builds into a dramatic crescendo, featuring breathtaking violin that steals the show. “Each Year” has to be one of the best songs of 2008, simply beautiful and captivating in every way, violin shimmering and vocals glimmering the entire duration. “St. Peter’s Day Festival” sounds straight out of a Shout Out Loud record and “Winter ‘05” is the most poignant song on the album. We witness Ra Ra Riot picking up the pace with “Dying Is Fine” and it is one of the most enjoyable songs on The Rhumb Line. Watch for Ra Ra Riot in the future, make sure to catch them live if you can, and definitely pick up this album.

8.7/10

Key Tracks- “Each Year” “Dying Is Fine” “Ghost Under Rocks”