Scum
by Rat Boy
User Score
7.3

Generally favorable reviews- based on 10 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 8 out of 10
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 10
  3. Negative: 2 out of 10
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  1. scepticpurple
    Aug 17, 2017
    8
    Some may find SCUM 's blend of Jamie-T esque rowdiness, early era Gorillaz's experimentation and well disguised wit that nods quietly towards the arctic monkeys to be a bit much. But however clumsy and indecisive as it may be, there is an originality in Rat Boy's music that is as intriguing as it is raucous.
  2. joshadams6
    Aug 19, 2017
    8
    Whilst some may consider "SCUM" an over simplification of Jamie T's "Panic Prevention," it isn't hard to see why Rat Boy has amassed the dedicated following he commands. "SCUM" is a commercially underrated album, though that is unlikely to sit highly in the minds of the band. The record is teeming with a DIY attitude which excellently manifests itself in tracks like "MOVE," "KNOCK KNOCKWhilst some may consider "SCUM" an over simplification of Jamie T's "Panic Prevention," it isn't hard to see why Rat Boy has amassed the dedicated following he commands. "SCUM" is a commercially underrated album, though that is unlikely to sit highly in the minds of the band. The record is teeming with a DIY attitude which excellently manifests itself in tracks like "MOVE," "KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK" and the eponymous "SCUM." Elsewhere, Jordan Cardy also proves that there is a more melodic side to his writing, deploying melancholic lung buster "LAIDBACK" alongside the Albarn/Coxon influenced "ILL BE WAITING." Speaking of Blur, the aforementioned pair separately gate-crash the LP with Albarn playing keyboards on "GET OVER IT" and TURN ROUND M8," whilst Coxon lays down the lead guitar on "LAIDBACK". In balance, some of the record feels perhaps overdone, but not to it's detriment. The skits work, but aren't overblown or over the top, and I could envisage that the band had trouble picking singles due to the vast quality of several tracks on the record (see "BOILING POINT," "SPORTSWEAR" and LEFT 4 DEAD").

    In all honesty, Rat Boy doesn't do anything particularly special on "SCUM," but it's a touch of personal charm that pushes the records past several of his contemporaries. The GTA vibe changes the dynamic of the record, making it a real shame that it falls outside the window for Mercury nomination. Overall, it feels like a unique calling card to have alongside a famously raucous live show, helping to dispel the feeling that they are just another indie rock band looking for a foothold, and cementing the feeling that Rat Boy is a name we won't be forgetting in a hurry.    … Expand
  3. musicfan202
    Feb 23, 2018
    10
    Not even one dull moment on this record. Very cohesive, and a truly phenomenal breakout project from Rat Boy.
  4. Ozilfan
    Aug 28, 2017
    8
    The album is truly exceptional, it features a unique sound with the themes touching on life experiences in the UK. "SIGN ON" is a standout song on the record.

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
74

Generally favorable reviews - based on 10 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 10
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 10
  3. Negative: 0 out of 10
  1. The Line of Best Fit
    Aug 28, 2017
    70
    If you aren’t into skits and novelty voice acting then you might struggle with the twenty five-high track listing. If you are though, you’re in for a treat.
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  2. Mojo
    Aug 22, 2017
    60
    Scum is a joyous mash-up of cheap beats, precinct-loitering aggro punk and youthful vim; it's by no means a classic, but you suspect Cardy may well have one in him soon. [Oct 2017, p.94]
  3. The Observer (UK)
    Aug 14, 2017
    60
    What starts off as a gang-signing, car-stealing, signing-on 21st-century Clash ends up as Jamie T robbing Jesus Jones, far more Westfield than Westway.
    Read full review
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