Lab Rat’s new single “Drunk,” released by the European label Mushroom Pillow, is a sonic whirlwind, combining punk energy with the raw grit of grunge. This release cements Dylan James, the British-born Australian artist behind Lab Rat, as an artist unafraid to channel his personal battles into intense, provocative music. As a follow-up to the acclaimed “Exit Path,” “Drunk” is a stark, honest reflection on the chaotic end of a toxic relationship, bringing listeners into the raw emotional aftermath with its powerful lyrics and magnetic sound.
“Drunk” opens with a bassline that feels like the beating heart of the song, embodying the turbulence that inspired it. The haunting guitar riffs add a sinister edge, while the relentless rhythm section provides a driving force that mirrors the cyclical fights Lab Rat experienced in this toxic relationship. There’s an undeniable punk edge here, but Lab Rat’s fusion of alt-rock and rap lends it a modern, almost genre-defying quality that keeps listeners hooked.
What sets Lab Rat apart is his ability to convey deeply personal struggles in a way that feels universally relatable. His lyrics in “Drunk” reveal the dark side of love: that messy, intense cycle of breaking up and reconnecting, fueled by late-night drunken phone calls and a toxic sense of attachment. Lab Rat’s willingness to dive into these emotions, sparing no detail, results in a visceral listening experience that brings listeners uncomfortably close to the emotional core of the song.
Behind “Drunk” lies Lab Rat’s remarkable journey of resilience. Battling addiction, grief, and mental health struggles, he channeled his pain into his work at Singing Bird Recording Studios in Melbourne. This background adds a layer of authenticity to his music that few artists can match. Now partnered with Mushroom Pillow, Lab Rat has the resources to reach a wider audience, but he remains committed to his roots and his distinct, unapologetic sound.
In a music world filled with polished, manufactured sounds, Lab Rat’s “Drunk” stands out as a refreshing, raw masterpiece. With its gritty energy, relatable themes, and unmistakable authenticity, the track is bound to resonate deeply with fans. Dylan James has crafted an unforgettable anthem of resilience and raw emotion, proving that sometimes the messiest love stories make for the most compelling art.
