Press Play: Ra Ra Riot

Ra Ra Riot is making a splash that will create a lasting ripple effect with their new album Need Your Light. The first

track on the album ”Water”, and the image of a diver plunging into clear waters foreshadow the experience of the album. Listeners can expect to be swallowed by the music. The indie rock band’s album is set to release February 19th, 2016. Ra Ra Riot’s new album is sure to be played on college radio stations around the nation, and rightly so given the bands history. Ra Ra Riot broke into the music scene via a college campus. The band initiation into the music scene started at Syracuse University where they played at houses and venues around the campus. The band’s reputation for high energy allowed them to maneuver into the spotlight landing them an appearance on the CMJ Music Marathon.

This appearance was the introduction of the band into the major music scene where many critical publications such as SPIN.com welcomed them with open arms. Ra Ra Riot began touring in 2007, embarking on what seemed to be the beginning of the band’s shining moment. However, tragedy struck when their drummer John Ryan Pike’s body was discovered on June 3rd, 2007 after a suspicious disappearance. Investigator’s ruled that no foul play had been committed. It appeared that Pikes had drowned. The remaining band members issued statement that they would continue as a band after Pikes’ funeral.

In July 2007, the band released a six song EP under the Rebel Group Label. In the winter of 2007 the band went on to sign with major label V2 records. As a celebration the band members decided to release Dying Is Fine and Each Year on 7″ vinyl as a double A-side single.

In May 2008 Ra Ra Riot signed with Barsuk records, and went on to release their debut album The Rumb Line in August. The band released their second album The Orchard two years later in August 2010, and then a third Beta Love in 2013.

Need Your Light is the band’s first album in three years, and will surely please the avid listeners who have waited so long to have the thirst for baroque-pop quenched.