EP Review: Radkey – No Strange Cats…Spiders (Century Media Records)

Radkey consists of three home-schooled brothers from St. Joseph, Missouri. Isaiah Radke (bass), Solomon Radke (drums), and Dee Radke (lead vocals and guitar) who formed their family-titled band in 2010. The punk/garage rock band have been building a hell of a reputation since their formation having played with the likes of Jack White, The Offspring and appearing at major festivals around the world.

Part punk and part rock with a smattering of poppier elements, Radkey’s new EP has a surprising amount of variety across its five tracks. A collection of previously released singles and one new one. Kicking off with the no-nonsense punk assault of the brand-new track, Spiders. A short, punchy and bouncy opener.

If you’re not familiar with the trio’s output you might be surprised to hear this kind of hyper-punk is not the dominant sound on No Strange Cats…Spiders. A good surprise though as Junes’ catchy rhythm is a vast improvement and way more memorable. It’s still got a little bite, particularly in the vocals but it’s got much more musical depth.

Rock & Roll Homeschool then delivers a delirious 2 minute rock track with bundles of bouncy old-school groove and an decent amount of fire in the vocals. It’s got just enough time to fire of a guitar solo too. One of the best tracks on the EP.

Followed up by the softer side of the band with St. Elwood and Not Smart. The former highlighted by crooning vocals while the latter is probably the catchiest track on the EP. Both tracks show a much broader range and will impress a wider variety of listeners. That’s no bad thing at all.

Radkey – No Strange Cats…Spiders Full Track Listing:

1. Spiders
2. Junes
3. Rock & Roll Homeschool
4. St. Elwood
5. Not Smart

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The EP and all Radkey’s earlier releases can be found via all major stores and streaming services.