Royel Otis’s covers of songs by other bands may have been what launched them into the limelight, their own music skills and style is what’s keeping them there.
Coming out of Sydney, Australia, Royal Otis is made up of Royel Maddell (guitar) and Otis Pavlovic (vocals). They first gained recognition with their of covers of “Linger” by The Cranberries (which reached #1 on U.S. Alternative Radio Chart) and “Murder on the Dancefloor” by Sophie Ellis-Bextor (which landed on the Billboard Hot 100). Soon after, their own singles began climbing their way onto the chart, namely “Sofa King”.
So far, Royal Otis has created three EPs, Campus, Bar & Grill, and Sofa King, as well as one album – PRATTS & PAIN after their initial debut onto the music scene in 2021.
The vibe Royel Otis creates is very unique, because you have Maddell’s quirky, skillful electric guitar instrumentation in the back and Pavlovic’s almost monotone vocals layered over that almost sound as if there were multiple people singing with him. Their musical style leans towards indie and alternative rock, with diluted sounds and a heavy emphasis on the guitar. The stringwork in the songs, created by Maddell is plucky, fun to listen to, and holds the listeners attention despite being the only instrument on the track. While there is basic percussion in the background, a lot of their songs actually use the sound of clapping hands as well.
While the amount of songs released by Royel Otis isn’t as expansive as other well-established artists, their music is definitely worth the listen. Their music is chill enough that you can listen to it while doing homework, but also peppy enough to blast in the car. Their combination of elements of 90s alternative rock, California surf rock, and indie pop creates songs that are both a blast from the past and a reflection of where the music industry is going.
My Top Ten:
- “Sofa King” (Sofa King)
- “Glory to Glory” (PRATTS & PAIN)
- “Oliy Heart”
- “Murder on the Dancefloor (cover)” (triple j Like A Version)
- “Foam” (PRATTS & PAIN)
- “Without U” (Campus)
- “Daisy Chain” (PRATTS & PAIN)
- “Always Always” (PRATTS & PAIN)
- “Motels” (Bar & Grill)
- “Warm Nights” (Bar & Grill)
For fans of the Arctic Monkeys, The Backseat Lovers, COIN, and Wallows.
