Retrovai is a ‘90s-inspired alt-rock band hailing from Northeast Pennsylvania. The band brings in the sounds of the ‘90s with influences that range from Green Day, Nirvana, Death Cab For Cutie and more. Their debut EP No Longer, Not Yet is a five-track collection that packs in the band’s great energy filled with a great retro ‘90s sound that furthers the genre as well as carrying the torch for like-minded bands of the era.
No Longer, Not Yet opens up to “Hints Of Autumn,” where bass lines enter this track with its deep rumbling sound. The vibe meanders for a bit, gradually growing and building across the sonic landscape. The bass riffs are very sparse. Eventually a full inclusion of guitars hits the wall of sound. Right away the next song “Feel Alive” transitions from the previous. This made for a very seamless listening experience. The sound that immediately comes in is really top notch. The wave of instrumentals comes and goes from wall-to-wall of sound to a simpler approach. The band tackles each sound with finesse and aplomb. On “Paradise (Fortune Cookie Song),” a drumming beat drives up the drama on this piece. Once the lead vocalist’s vocals enter, you can feel the music really coming together. The music paid a distinct homage here to ’90s powerpop and punk bands from the era. I was getting very nostalgic vibes while listening to this track. On “Shattered,” guitars and drums pick up for a jaunty rhythm on this fast-paced song. This felt like a dance-worthy track to get moving along to. The catchy melodies and riffs were both contagious and moving all at once. The scream-o vocals in the chorus added to the zeal coming from the band here. The clash of instrumentals came in for some more of the band’s resonating sound on “Monsters.” I was reminded of bands like Taking Back Sunday and Thrice. The band throws themselves all-in on this epic of a punk rock song. The band decisively sends you off with this bold and moody closer and what a finish it is! According to the band, No Longer, Not Yet “tell stories of overcoming codependency, guilt and learning how to not enable the sick. Everyone has baggage and an inner child with wounds that we cannot see. It’s important to recognize that and take time to heal before those wounds hinder your present day life.” While Retrovai’s set of songs on this EP certainly sends out an impactful message, this by no means diminishes their sound. No Longer Not Yet tells a story about breaking free from the mold and making a difference where it counts. This is a talented band with a whole lot to say. Here’s to hoping they continue this conversation in a follow-up full-length release soon.
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