Big Jack & Rat Daddy - Big Jack & Rat Daddy EP

Big Jack & Rat Daddy

Big Jack & Rat Daddy EP 
self-released; 2017

​3.4 out of 5

By Jamie Funk

Big Jack & Rat Daddy are two young dudes (Jack Weiss) and (Raphael Gould) who have been playing music since they were in the  fourth grade. Big Jack & Rat Daddy EP is their first release.  

​The good thing is that they display a lot of potential. I thought the music was well written and delivered. At this point the biggest thing holding them back is the recording quality. They did it DIY style basically on an iPad which as you can imagine doesn't sound like they recorded in a professional studio.

The songs are eclectic and quirky like their attire on the album cover. Take for instance the opener “Past The Point (Of No Return)” which is a bit funky with an oddly aggressive vocal style that's on the verge of rapping. The bass line is pretty solid.

“Inside Your Pocket” is a step up and reminded me of Ariel Pink. Something about the music felt ironic like the music on Mature Themes. The best moment arrives at the three-minute mark. It’s a pretty catchy vocal melody that got my attention.

“Maybe I'm The Fool” made my head spin. Something about the timing made me feel like I had vertigo and needed to step outside for some air. The band attempts some distorted guitar on “Don't Look Into The Sun” but unfortunately the iPad can’t handle the intensity. That being said the guitar solo section sounds badass. They close with “Hungry Man” which is at times frantic. The song is all over the place like a medley. 

Big Jack & Rat Daddy are having fun. There are lots of things to improve but the reality is they got all the time in the world. I think they are off to a  good start for being such young guys and I can guarantee that if they keep at it their best work will be ahead of them. Twenty years ago I was very similar to them making music with one of my best friends. Although back then it wasn't nearly as easy to record, I’m still at it and there is no arguing I’ve gotten to be a better songwriter. In their case let's not wait twenty years. I have a feeling we'll be hearing more from them soon.

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