RIOT SON – Loneliest At Best (2025)
Harnessing the intricacies and complexities of reality, singer-songwriter RIOT SON digs into the grittier, grimier, but also pleasant experiences of life. With a spirit of rebellion, they embody the name “RIOT SON” as they forge forth, unrelentingly in a way, to connect with audiences on a deeper, intensely intimate way. The latest addition to their discography is the single, ‘Loneliest At Best’.
Following their singles ‘Like I’m Dreaming’ and ‘Bad World’, ‘Loneliest At Best’ is the first track off RIOT SON’s upcoming three-track EP of the same name. While their previous material retained the wistful vibe of old-school post-punk, ‘Loneliest At Best’ appears to be a pivotal turn, hinting at a new, heavier, more emo-inspired tone. Consider a mish-mash of My Chemical Romance and The Used; then add a drop of vintage post-punk ala The Smiths and The Cure, and you’ll have an idea of ‘Loneliest At Best’.
Recorded in their home studio in Boone, North Carolina, and produced with Ekkstacy’s Magnet&u, ‘Loneliest At Best’ combines powerful drums, a bold bass, and soaring guitars in a harmonic wash of music. Listening to RIOT SON is not only hearing the song blast from your speakers; it is an immersive wave of sound dragging you through a foggy sonic swamp. Each step is another trudge across what appears to be an immense pool of grey-ness – a look at the in-between areas of relationships.
“This song encompasses a melodramatic feeling of falling in and out of love with a partner. Particular lyrics towards the end of the song saying, “save your breath, you pretend it’s ok”, is about how we go on to ignore blatant feelings that surface over time within relationships.” – RIOT SON on ‘Loneliest At Best’
Slowly, the track delicately unpicks intricate ideals of romance… but not only the happier side of things. Sincere and sentimental, but honest and weighty, ‘Loneliest At Best’ captures the confusion of love with each note. I find it intriguing that the song picks up speed, but removes the foggy undergrowth, giving way to the vocals until it abruptly stops with emo-filled brashness.
Find out more about RIOT SON on their Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
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