Sofa Kings
Royel Otis
2023
Indie Pop
7 Tracks
21 minutes, 42 seconds
OURNESS
Produced by Chris Collins
1xLP 180gm
About the artist
Royel Otis, the Sydney-based duo comprised of Royel Maddell and Otis Pavlovic, has rapidly become a standout act in the indie music scene. Their sound, which draws heavily on the vibrant energy of 2010s indie acts, is characterised by jangly guitars, synth-driven melodies, and a laid-back, sun-soaked vibe that feels uniquely Australian. With each release, they’ve continued to refine their approach, blending the familiar with the unexpected to create something both nostalgic and refreshingly new.
On the turntable
Royel Otis’s third EP, Sofa Kings, released in March 2023, is a delightful exploration of laid-back indie pop that’s as comfortable and comforting as its title suggests. The album feels like an ode to those quiet, reflective moments spent on the couch—whether you’re lounging after a long day or soaking in the morning sun. This seven-track collection is infused with the duo’s signature mix of jangly guitars, smooth synths, and catchy hooks, creating a soundscape that’s both euphoric and introspective.
The duo drew inspiration from the mundane yet comforting aspects of life, describing the EP as a tribute to "all the used, soiled, stained, and discarded furniture that served us so well through all highs and lows," which metaphorically speaks to embracing life's imperfections and taking things at your own pace.
The lead single, "Sofa King," embodies this relaxed ethos with its breezy melody and a chorus that’s as effortlessly cool as it is memorable. The track’s lyrics playfully capture the feeling of taking life at your own pace, a theme that resonates throughout the EP, acknowledging the beauty in simplicity and honesty. The playful yet poignant refrain, "You’re so fucking gorgeous," encapsulates the mix of admiration and self-doubt that permeates the song. From the danceable groove of "I Wanna Dance With You" to the reflective, mostly instrumental "Farewell Warning," Sofa Kings showcases Royel Otis’s ability to craft songs that feel both intimate and expansive.
What makes Sofa Kings particularly compelling is how it balances its carefree vibe with moments of genuine emotional depth. Tracks like "Going Kokomo" and "Letter from Roy" delve into themes of escapism and unrequited love, respectively, adding layers of complexity to the EP’s sun-drenched sound. The production is polished yet retains a raw, organic feel, allowing the duo’s infectious energy to shine through.
Royel Otis has described the EP as a tribute to the "used, soiled, stained and discarded furniture" that has been part of their journey—a metaphor for embracing life’s imperfections and finding beauty in the mundane. This sentiment is mirrored in the music, which invites listeners to kick back, relax, and take things as they come. It’s no wonder the duo has been named Spotify’s latest RADAR artist in Australia/New Zealand, a testament to their rising influence in the indie pop scene.
From the crate
