Grace Hamilton by Opinions & Editorials Editor

“In the lyrical justice system, the people are represented by two separate yet equally important groups: The Royel, who investigate rhyme, and Otis, who prosecutes the offenders. These are their stories.”

This incredible introduction was lifted straight from the Spotify page of Royel Otis, and aside from the amazing spin on the iconic quote, they are certainly being honest in how seriously they take the art of rhyme.

The Australian indie pop duo, made up of members Royel Maddell and Otis Pavlovic, has made their mark with PRATTS & PAIN, their debut full-length album. Actually, it’s the second time they’ve made their mark, after a video of them covering “Murder on the Dance Floor’’ went viral on TikTok in January 2024 with 10.9 million views.

It’s admittedly impressive when a group can make its mark twice.

PRATTS & PAIN is a play on a London pub, Pratts & Payne, where Royel Otis recorded a live set of the album. 

Music-wise, the album is sonically and lyrically cohesive. It starts off very strong with “Adored.” Royel Otis sings, “And my vision turns blue with the terrible things that I want,” — a banger of a line — on top of a fun mix of drum and guitar. Otis Pavlovic brings in a subtle but soft and interesting voice that blends well with the music itself.

Two of my favorite songs are “IHYSM” and “Sofa King.” “IHYSM” is upbeat with an addictive synth-sounding track, reminiscent of mid-2000s indie pop. “Sofa King” is similar in its older sound, reminding me of MGMT or Modest Mouse. “The Holy Ghost should hold your hand for me” is a great line, by the way.

In the entirety of the album, “Velvet” is the weakest song. Lyrically, it’s a little too repetitive, and it’s not quite as catchy as the other songs, so it does not make up for its poor lyricism. However, it genuinely sounds like Royel Otis is just having a good time on the track.

From there, things slow down with “Molly” to coast through the last half of the album, ending strongly with “Big Ciggie.” “He died thinking too much of you” is an incredible line, in my opinion, as well as “Until some jackknife cut her life / Burned up with the pack in the yard.”

Royel Otis has truly made the best possible album debut. Any enjoyer of good indie pop — from the casual fan to the hardcore stan — will love this album and its creativity, cohesiveness and obvious show of talent. And it’s only their first!

Wallows and The Backseat Lovers are a bit of a similar sound. Or maybe all dudes in their 20s making indie pop records and having fun with their best friends create a similar sound — and I just eat it up every single time. Regardless, PRATTS & PAIN is an album that’s meant to be listened to while driving down the highway in the middle of the night with the windows down.

Or just while you’re doing homework, either way is good.

Moral of the story? Just listen, you’ll be glad you did.