Rebel Kicks share a timeless tale of eternal love in their their sweet new single and video Past Life — showcasing today on Tinnitist.
The first single from their just-announced EP somewhere.in.between., Past Life is an emotive exploration of the powerful connections humans make, drawing on the concept of soulmates and the intriguing red string theory. “Past Life was inspired by the unexplainable feeling like you’ve known someone forever, but you’re only meeting them for the first time,” the band share. “It’s an exploration of the intangible, instant connection that sometimes happens between people, almost as if some invisible force has drawn you to each other.”
Arriving Dec. 8, somewhere.in.between. serves as a testament to Rebel Kicks’ musical evolution. This latest collection showcases their impeccable ability to meld genres and influences into a cohesive sound that’s distinctly their own.
The story of Rebel Kicks began when Anthony walked into his younger brother Steven’s room and simply said: “Here is a bass and here is a setlist — we have a gig Friday.” Up until then, the brothers had been lifelong musicians, playing and singing harmony with their father — a professional jazz musician — but had yet to find their music. Anthony had a weekly residency doing mostly covers, and Steven hadn’t even figured out what instrument best suited him. The Babino brothers were far away from the distinctive and diversely accomplished musicians they have become.
Since forming in 2018, Rebel Kicks have released a string of singles, several of which have been featured on MTV and Showtime. Live, the duo augment their lineup with longtime bandmates Daniel Bradley (drums) and Dorian Lake (keys/vocals). Rebel Kicks have shared bills with artists like Foo Fighters, Blink-182, Mac Miller, Iggy Azalea, Incubus and more.
“We grew up listening to so many genres — jazz, classic rock, Motown, R&B — and with Rebel Kicks we have finally found a project where we can explore our full range,” Anthony says. Steven adds: “It may sound cliché to say this, but life is a journey, and we finally hit upon a sound that reflects our journey.”
Anthony and Steven are gifted multi-instrumentalists who often write, record, produce, and play all the instruments on their songs. The duo also welcome collaboration, and have worked with some of the best producers and songwriters in the business, including Abe Dertner (Walk The Moon, MAX), Jeff Blue (Macy Gray, Hoobastank, Korn, Linkin Park), Jason Pennock (2pac, Polyenso, The Pussycat Dolls), Russ DeSalvo (Lou Reed, Celine Dion, Lionel Richie) and Jimmy Greco (Paramore, Santana).
Other highlights in the band’s catalog include the groove-centric Electrophoria, the explosive Sillhouette, the futuristic stadium rocker It’s You, which appeared in the comedy-drama Shameless, the new wave-flavoured We Should Go Missing, and the electric riff-soaked anthem Hamartia.
For Anthony and Steven, Rebel Kicks represent the culmination of a wonderfully winding adventure in music. The band also offer an opportunity for the Babino brothers to do what they love together. “We are a very close family, and it’s been amazing for us to share in making the music that has always lived in us,” Anthony says. Steven adds: “We are best friends, and it’s not lost on me how lucky we are to make a living writing and performing together.”
Rebel Kicks are set to perform at The Cutting Room in N.Y.C. on Nov. 3. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit their website.
somewhere.in.between. Track List
1 | The Girl in Barcelona
2 | Past Life
3 | Flowering Dogwood
4 | Feel Good
5 | Save It For A Rainy Day
Watch the video for Past Life above, sample more from Rebel Kicks below, and join them at their website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok.