LADSCLUB – THE PLAYPEN (2026)
Brighton duo LADSCLUB are back with ‘THE PLAYPEN’, and they’re clearly leaning into the darker, more playful side of their sound this time. It’s still very much electro-pop, still very them, but there’s something a bit more curious and slightly unsettling running through it.
The intro is honestly the best surprise. It starts with someone repeating “papapa papapa” with no music at all, which feels random at first, almost like you’re not sure what you’re listening to. Then the synths slowly creep in, and you realise that this vocal loop is actually part of the whole structure of the track. It’s such a clever way to pull you in, and it definitely made me stop and pay attention.
Once the beat fully kicks in, the song settles into that throbbing electro-pop groove LADSCLUB is known for. It’s catchy, a bit hypnotic, and easy to get into. The shared vocals work well too, adding to that slightly eerie, back-and-forth energy between the two voices. That said, after the initial surprise of the intro, the track can feel a bit repetitive in places. The main idea sticks around for quite a while without changing too much, but just when you start to notice, fortunately, things shift a little.
From the hook, the vocals and effects evolve, with more layering and subtle changes that keep it engaging. It also leans into that 80s-inspired dark synth-pop sound, especially in the chorus, which is clearly built to stick. You can imagine why it’s already going down so well live; it’s the kind of part people will shout back without even thinking.
There’s also something quite immersive about the atmosphere. It feels like you’ve stepped into this strange little world they’ve built – slightly dark, slightly playful, and you’re just stuck in it until the track ends. It fits perfectly with the whole “playpen” concept without a need to spell it out too much.
Overall, ‘THE PLAYPEN’ is a fun and slightly weird track in the best way. The intro alone makes it stand out, and even if it seems a bit repetitive at times, it still manages to stay in your head long after it’s finished.
Find out more about LADSCLUB on their Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Bandcamp, BlueSky, X, Facebook and Spotify.
Listen to more synth-pop music on The Other Side Reviews Synth Pop playlist:
