An anthemic rock success from Cincinnati-based act Boy Bandicoot, “Protagonist” melds playful synth arps and erupting guitar twangs with infectious captivation. Serene vocals enter as the guitars assume more sporadic propulsions, invoking The Strokes in its climactic rise. The hooky escalation — “losing your grip,” — combines invigorated vocals and lush backings for a replay-inducing effect, carried further by the “you’re gonna need all of it,” airiness. The track’s traversal from dark intrigue into a brighter, punk-tinged enthusiasm makes for a riveting listening experience. We’re firmly anticipating the project’s debut album, set to release in 2025.
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This and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
The track is also featured in the genre-based, best-of Spotify compilation Emerging Indie Rock. Stream the playlist below:
