Subway Rat, the musical brainchild of New York’s very own David Polanco, has burst onto the scene with his debut album, “Stand Clear of the Closing Doors.” Released in the summer of 2023, this 12-track masterpiece has quickly become a sensation, amassing nearly 2 million streams and earning praise for its mesmerizing energy, polished production, and the lyrical prowess of its creator.
Polanco, born and bred in the borough of Queens, showcases his talent as a songwriter and vocalist in an album that defies genre conventions. The lead single, ‘Rendezvous,’ sets the stage for a musical journey that skillfully blends the storytelling finesse of NJ pop with the gritty allure of NY alternative beats, leaving listeners hooked from the first note.
Our favorite track, “Tell Me What To Do,” is a great experience from start to finish and really deserves more attention. The lyrics of this song resonate with listeners, creating a memorable and relatable experience. The impressive drum arrangements and overall production elevate the track, making it a standout on the album. David’s performance is exceptional, leaving an indelible mark from start to finish. This song is a captivating journey that seamlessly blends outstanding vocals, compelling lyrics, and top-notch production.
The influence of iconic New York bands like The Strokes and LCD Soundsystem is evident in Subway Rat’s sound, offering a delicate balance between nostalgic comfort and cutting-edge innovation. The album’s success is a testament to Polanco’s ability to weave a sonic tapestry that resonates with a diverse audience, capturing the essence of the city that never sleeps.
“Stand Clear of the Closing Doors” unfolds as a narrative, following the protagonist, a young man navigating the labyrinth of the big city after a heartbreak. The album brilliantly captures the tension between the pain of unrequited love and the relentless pursuit of connection. As the listener is taken on this danceable alt-rock journey, echoes of mid-00s Lower East Side nostalgia permeate the tracks, creating a sonic landscape that is both familiar and refreshingly new.
What sets this debut apart is Subway Rat’s willingness to experiment with various musical elements. Hip hop drums, progressive delays, echoes, and indie pop synthesizers, all with a distinctive Queens flair, elevate the album beyond typical indie offerings. The fusion of these creative and experimental elements adds depth and layers to the music, creating a unique sonic identity for Subway Rat.
David Polanco’s vocals stand out as a highlight of the album, characterized by a richness that adds emotional depth to each track. The raw vulnerability of the lyrics invites the listener into the artist’s world, making “Stand Clear of the Closing Doors” more than just a collection of songs but a genuine expression of personal experiences and emotions.
As Subway Rat continues to gain momentum in the indie alternative scene, “Stand Clear of the Closing Doors” stands as a formidable debut, marking Polanco as a rising star in the realm of retro-inspired, alt-rock indie pop. The album’s success not only speaks to the artist’s talent but also to the universal appeal of music that seamlessly blends the old with the new, the familiar with the unexpected. With a promising future ahead, Subway Rat has firmly established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the ever-evolving landscape of New York City’s music scene.
