New album "Hickey" by Royel Otis.
Friday, August 22nd marked the release of Royel Otis’s highly anticipated sophomore album — the follow-up to their breakout debut Pratts & Pain. And let me tell you: I loved every second of it.
This record feels like a drive down the coast with the windows down, the sun dipping below the horizon, and nothing but good vibes ahead. It’s beachy, breezy, and effortlessly cool — a sonic postcard from late summer that’s destined to carry us into early fall. From start to finish, this feels like Royel Otis’s best work yet.
It’s wild to think how far they’ve come since their viral cover of Linger by The Cranberries took social media by storm. That moment put them on the map, but this album proves they’re here to stay.
I had the chance to do a quick Q+A with the band back in February at Gorham Brothers Music in Syracuse — a moment I’ll never forget.
And speaking of unforgettable, my favorite track on the album is Say Something. It’s got this shimmering, nostalgic energy that totally caught me off guard — especially when I found out it was inspired by Take On Me by A-Ha. That blend of retro influence and modern indie pop is exactly what makes Royel Otis so special.
This album is going to be the soundtrack to your late summer nights and early fall mornings. Don’t sleep on it.
Album: Hickey
Release Date: August 22, 2025
Artist: Royel Otis
Track Highlight: Say Something
