The Aussie duo is back with impeccable vibes on their second album...
It’s safe to say that Royel Otis is currently in the spotlight. With only a few EPs, one full-length album, and two spectacular covers to their name, it seems every barista from Melbourne to LA is spinning their dreamy, sun-soaked tracks. We’ve seen this before—think of The xx’s debut or Tame Impala’s ‘Currents’—but once again, Royel Otis has tapped into that unique mix of nostalgic, danceable indie that appeals to nearly everyone. Their influences are clear, yet the way they execute it is effortlessly delightful and often quite addictive.
Following 2024’s ‘Pratts & Pain’, ‘hickey’ doesn’t stray far from their successful formula. If anything, this time it feels a bit grander and more intentional—smoother around the edges, yet still rooted in that charming, grungy lo-fi sound. Their fondness for 70s and 80s alternative bands has never been more evident. ‘Shut Up’ incorporates synth sounds straight from Bowie’s ‘Golden Years’, while the euphoric instrumental track ‘Who’s Your Boyfriend’ mirrors New Order so closely that it nearly borders on imitation. The Peter Hook-inspired basslines and Bernard Sumner-like guitar work are replicated with remarkable accuracy—but honestly, it’s incredibly catchy.
Fortunately, they haven’t forgotten to remain relevant. Tracks like the infectious ‘Car’ bring a more modern feel, with vocalist Otis Pavlovic infusing each line with heartbreak and emotional turmoil, all delivered in his unmistakable tone. Similarly, ‘Dancing With Myself’ feels firmly rooted in 2025 rather than 1985—a laid-back pop hit that sways and moves with effortless charm. Then there’s the cleverly titled closing track, ‘Jazz Burger’—a slow, glimmering conclusion featuring strumming acoustics, dusty slide guitar, and rough piano flourishes. It stands out as the album’s most intimate and vulnerable moment, providing a refreshing farewell amidst the loving nods to their influences.
Critiquing ‘hickey’ is a challenging task. The instinctual part of this writer’s brain was too preoccupied enjoying the hazy melodies and familiar rhythms to raise concerns. The music critic side may have wished for more bold moments—tracks that bring something truly innovative to the table, instead of revisiting the best parts of The Cure, Phoenix, or MGMT. Yet, when the vibes are this perfect, it’s difficult to contest. ‘hickey’ is an album that feels as refreshing as an ice-cold beer at sunset—instantly revitalizing and deeply satisfying.
Ultimately, LP 2 represents a band that has taken everything that has worked up to now and polished it with style, taste, and precision. It’s filled from start to finish with tracks poised to shine in a live setting, whether you’re perspiring in a festival tent or just setting the mood in your kitchen. Once again, they’ve discovered the magic formula: that coming-of-age, nostalgia-laden, danceable indie we can’t help but adore. For that—well done, boys. Well done. 7/10 Words: Sam Walker-Smart
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It's safe to say that Royel Otis is currently in high demand. With only a few EPs, one complete album, and two impressive covers to their name, each