Ratbag Curates Exclusive Playlist for 'The Cover,' Showcasing Alt-Pop Brilliance

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. Ratbag's Unique Soundscape
4. Celebrating Womanhood and Identity
5. The Path to Recognition
6. Conclusion
7. FAQ

Key Highlights

• New Zealand alt-pop artist Ratbag (Sophie Brown) releases an exclusive playlist titled "Sweet and Sour Stomach Swirls" as part of her feature in NME's weekly series, The Cover.
• The playlist includes tracks from influential artists like Slow Pulp, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, and Sky Ferreira, reflecting Ratbag's unique sound and aesthetic.
• Ratbag's upcoming EP delves into themes of womanhood, identity, and the complexities of her queer experience.

Introduction

Every week, emerging musical talent claims the spotlight on NME's The Cover, a platform dedicated to introducing new voices in the industry. This week, New Zealand's alt-pop artist Ratbag (real name Sophie Brown) takes center stage, offering listeners a glimpse into her musical universe with an exclusive playlist titled "Sweet And Sour Stomach Swirls." The term aptly reflects her blend of joyful and complex themes as she crafts her narrative through music.

In an age where discovering new artists can be overwhelming, Ratbag stands out with her refreshing perspective. Her music is a fusion of personal experiences, poignant lyrics, and various sonic influences, establishing her as a significant player in today’s music landscape. This article will explore Ratbag's journey, the curated playlist, and the profound themes that resonate within her art.

Ratbag's Unique Soundscape

Ratbag's work is characterized by an eclectic blend of alt-pop, integrating elements from various genres, showcasing a versatility that sets her apart. Her recently curated playlist includes tracks from Slow Pulp, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, and Sky Ferreira—artists that inspire and define her musical identity.

Playlist Elements

The "Sweet And Sour Stomach Swirls" playlist comprises the following:

• Slow Pulp - Their mellow yet introspective tunes align with Ratbag's narrative storytelling style.
• Yeah Yeah Yeahs - Known for their innovative sound and powerful vocals, they serve as a direct influence on Ratbag's alt-pop aesthetic.
• Sky Ferreira - Her ability to oscillate between explosive energy and poignant vulnerability resonates with Ratbag's lyrical sensibilities.

Musical Inspirations

In crafting her playlist, Ratbag draws inspiration from not only these established artists but also from her own experiences navigating the complexities of identity and femininity. The interplay of sweetness and bitterness in the playlist title mirrors her introspective exploration of personal relationships and societal expectations.

Celebrating Womanhood and Identity

In her feature with NME, Ratbag opens up about her upcoming EP, which promises to chronicle the capacities of love, horror, and ultimately, the beauty of being a woman. She candidly expresses, “I’m finding that being a woman is beautiful and sexy, and also very terrifying.” This juxtaposition reveals a spectrum of emotions that feeds into her songwriting process.

Embracing Queer Identity

For Brown, acceptance of her queer identity has been a transformative experience. “A few years ago, I finally told myself that I was, in fact, very gay. And since then, I feel that being a woman has only… bloomed.” This intense self-discovery is woven throughout the new EP and emerges powerfully in her lyrics.

Fan Interaction and Community Building

Beyond the music, Ratbag emphasizes the sense of community brought to life through her art. At recent performances, fans have engaged with her visual universe, as exemplified by patrons crafting toys based on her artistic expressions. Ratbag fondly recalls, “Someone made an entire toy from something that I had drawn and put on a shirt, this little devil guy.” Such interactions amplify the connection between her creative journey and her audience.

The Path to Recognition

While her rise in the alt-pop scene has been meteoric, Ratbag's journey is grounded in the late nights of writing and performing in local venues. Her upbringing in New Zealand has been filled with musical influences from diverse genres, allowing her to cultivate a unique style that resonates with a global audience.

Professional Milestones

Beginning her career independently, Ratbag has made waves through music platforms and social media, effectively utilizing these channels to build a loyal fanbase. The positive reception of her singles has only added to her momentum, establishing her as a significant figure in contemporary music.

Upcoming Projects

In reflection of her continuous growth, Ratbag’s forthcoming EP is set to release later this year, building anticipation not only for her existing fanbase but for new listeners drawn to her compelling narratives and soundscapes.

Conclusion

As Ratbag continues to conquer the alt-pop sphere, her story serves not only as inspiration for emerging artists but as a catalyst for conversations about identity and the realities of womanhood. The NME Cover feature, along with her curated playlist, emphasizes her talents and pursuits, bringing forth a fresh voice that seeks to resonate with authenticity and relatability.

FAQ

Who is Ratbag?

Ratbag, whose real name is Sophie Brown, is a New Zealand alt-pop artist known for her eclectic sound and poignant lyrics.

What is "Sweet And Sour Stomach Swirls?"

"Sweet And Sour Stomach Swirls" is an exclusive playlist curated by Ratbag, which features a selection of songs by artists that inspire her, including Slow Pulp and Yeah Yeah Yeahs.

When is Ratbag's EP expected to release?

Ratbag’s upcoming EP is set to be released later this year, exploring themes of womanhood, identity, and personal experiences.

How can I listen to Ratbag's music?

Ratbag's music, including her curated playlists, can typically be found on major streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music.

What themes does Ratbag explore in her music?

Ratbag's music explores a range of themes, particularly those surrounding womanhood and her queer identity, combining personal experiences with broader societal conversations.