Subway Rat releases brand new album

Coming out of New York City, Subway Rat, the artistic banner of David Polanco, is a genre-bending, alternative indie pop sensation hailing from the borough of Queens. His musical journey is as unique as the city itself, marked by a distinctive sound that blends retro inspiration with a contemporary edge.

Subway Rat’s musical genesis took an unexpected turn during a tumultuous period; a prolonged breakup with his college sweetheart and a subsequent autism level 1 diagnosis that would alter the course of his life. It was amidst this turmoil that he penned his debut single, “Rendezvous,” unveiling his raw and emotive sound to the world in April last year.

With no formal training apart from a 7th-grade stint with the trumpet and eight years of step and hip hop dancing, Subway Rat has proven that natural talent and a passion for expression can forge a unique artistic identity. Collaborating with indie rock guitarist and producer Paco Lee, Subway Rat’s freestyle-driven approach has resulted in over 100 songs, all brought to life with the expertise of multi-platinum, Grammy-winning engineers at Lounge Studios in Times Square.

Subway Rat’s sound draws on his distinctive rasp, emotive delivery and edgy dance flow, a fusion reminiscent of iconic New York artists like The Strokes, Ramones, Talking Heads, Lou Reed, as well as rappers DMX and 50 Cent. Drawing inspiration from across the river in New Jersey, Subway Rat also infuses his storytelling with the spirit of Bruce Springsteen, Bon Jovi and Bleachers.

He’s released multiple well-received singles and dropped his debut full-length record titled Stand Clear Of The Closing Doors in August, an album that’s already racked up over a million streams. He now brings us his latest release with his brand new sophomore record, Captain of the Football Team, a ten track LP that captures the perfect snapshot of the latest chapter in Subway Rat’s thrilling musical adventure.

Opened by “Outta Town,” bright indie guitar layers set up an inviting sound as Subway Rat’s trademark raspy vocals enter over the uptempo snap of drums. Joined by the pulsing energy of bass guitar lines as the guitars twang below his compelling vocal leads, the opening track lays down a catchy sound of Subway Rat’s energising, original and catchy sound.

“Hope!” follows with an charming sound of heartfelt lyricism, punchy rhythm, intricate guitar lines and anthemic vocal leads. The perfect display of his unique and instantly memorable indie sound, “Hope!” delivers a delightful slice of storytelling songwriting, wrapped up in a captivating indie rock sound.

With “Crazy,” Subway Rat crafts a delicate balance of lively percussive energy and airy instrumental textures. Soft flute style tones contrast with his gritty vocals as he spins infectious melodic leads over a danceable indie soundscape.

Other highlights on the record include songs like “Moon” with its wistful guitar twangs, laid back drum strikes and lulling lead guitar lines before Subway Rat weaves his stretched vocal leads, resulting in an emotive sound that builds in energy to a lofty chorus. “Corner Cafe” kicks off with warm guitar plucks, joined by the punch of drums as Subway Rat’s distinct voice enters to deliver picture painting lyricism full of nostalgia and sepia-toned reflection wrapped up in a spirited indie jam.

The record closes with “Modern Lovers” with its filtered crunch of guitar tones joined by the shuffling snap of the drums and moving melodies of Subway Rat’s vocal leads. Crafting a rousing sound with an epic indie anthem, “Modern Lovers” serves up an infectious sound that perfectly closes Subway Rat’s sensational sophomore record in a spectacular fashion.

Listen to Captain of the Football Team below