Irish self-proclaimed ‘b*tch-pop’ band BABYRAT have made their unforgettable debut with ‘Roses’, a fun, frenetic track that proves they’re an up-and-coming band to watch.
Since forming in late 2024, BABYRAT have steadily gained traction in the Irish and British music scenes, despite releasing no songs until now. Fresh off a busy summer which saw them play festivals across the UK and Ireland. After supporting Jack White in Dublin’s 3Olympia Theatre, the band have finally unveiled their debut single. ‘Roses’, which has opened all of BABYRAT’s live sets to date, serves as the perfect introduction to the band’s sound and their unique blend of playfulness and spiky attitude.
From the track’s opening few seconds, BABYRAT build anticipation with a steady drumbeat and intertwining guitar riffs before exploding into a sonic landscape of shimmering guitars and synth, thrumming bass, and punchy drums, anchored by vocalist Zoe Jordan’s endlessly spirited performance. Jordan immediately establishes herself as a powerful performer, completely in control of the song’s emotion and impact; she alternates between soft, sweet vocals and impassioned shouting, convincing the listener that she means every word.
‘Roses’ is defined by its incredibly catchy pop-punk chorus. Paramore and Olivia Rodrigo are clear comparisons, due to the contrast between love and anger illustrated in the lyrics: “Bought you a dozen roses / Just so you’d watch them die.” Alongside pointed and spiteful lyrics like: “I’ve got a sour taste in my mouth / And I got it when I saw you”. BABYRAT’s more playful, lighthearted side shines through too. "The girls from the Roundy go to Bróg to dance /And the girls from the Roundy don’t give second chances”, Jordan sings, referencing two popular bars in the band’s hometown of Cork City.
The track is also striking for its use of guitar. Reminiscent of rock bands such as The Strokes, BABYRAT don’t make much distinction between lead and rhythm guitar parts. Instead, guitarists Jamie Kierans and Matthew Lucas share duties, trading riffs and chords. They keep the listener guessing, and it’s effective - the song’s intro is made instantly memorable by its dual riffs.
BABYRAT have crammed as much vitality and energy as they can into three short minutes. 'Roses' is a purely enjoyable pop-punk anthem, made to be listened to out loud.
Mia Tobin Power
Image: ‘Roses’ Official Single Cover