Peter Cat Recording Co., the eclectic and genre-bending band known for their unique soundscapes, surprised fans with the release of “Rejected,” a collection of previously unreleased tracks. This EP offers a fascinating glimpse into the band’s creative process and evolution, showcasing songs written and set aside before finding their way to the public.
Released on May 11, 2020, “Rejected” isn’t presented as a grand statement, but rather as an intimate offering, described by the band as “an exorcism in the form of a greeting card.” This humble description belies the rich musicality contained within the eight tracks. The EP, available for streaming and download on Bandcamp, provides listeners with a diverse range of sounds, each track a testament to Peter Cat Recording Co.’s versatility.
The tracklist itself hints at the sonic journey within “Rejected.” From the ethereal “Clouds” to the driving rhythm of “Work Clothes,” and the introspective mood of “Glass or 2,” the EP navigates various emotional and sonic territories. Tracks like “Go Home,” “Chronic,” and “Fury” suggest a blend of Peter Cat Recording Co.’s signature jazz-infused melodies with hints of rock and electronic elements. “Backyard” and “Jee Jee” further contribute to the EP’s dynamic range, promising a listening experience that is both engaging and unpredictable.
Peter Cat Recording Co. frames the release of “Rejected” within a broader context, reflecting on global events and societal shifts. In their “about” section accompanying the EP, the band touches upon a sense of global awakening and transformation. They mention “waking up from the great nap of the 20th century” and hint at an impending “tsunami” of change, suggesting a world in flux. This perspective adds a layer of depth to “Rejected,” positioning it not just as a collection of discarded songs, but as a timely offering amidst uncertainty. While acknowledging the seriousness of global events, Peter Cat Recording Co. offers “Rejected” as a form of connection and perhaps, a sonic comfort.
The band also alludes to future projects, stating that their previous release, “Bismillah,” marked the end of a learning era, and that their next “proper release” will be “monumental and important.” This anticipation builds excitement for what’s to come from Peter Cat Recording Co., making “Rejected” an intriguing bridge between their past and future sonic explorations. In the meantime, “Rejected” serves as a welcome gift for fans, a chance to delve deeper into the Peter Cat Recording Co.’s musical universe and appreciate even their “rejected” creations.
“Rejected” is available for purchase on Bandcamp for $7 USD, offering high-quality downloads in various formats, including 24-bit/44.1kHz. The EP’s artwork is credited to Namrata Kumar, with design by Karan Singh, adding visual dimensions to the overall artistic package. Under an “all rights reserved” license, Peter Cat Recording Co. maintains full ownership of this release.
In conclusion, “Rejected” by Peter Cat Recording Co. is more than just a collection of B-sides. It’s a curated set of songs that provides valuable insight into the band’s creative journey and offers a thoughtful commentary on the times. For fans of Peter Cat Recording Co. and newcomers alike, “Rejected” is a worthwhile exploration into the band’s distinctive sound and artistic vision, available now on Bandcamp.
