Rubblebucket’s ‘Year of the Banana’: A Joyful Celebration of Growth and Groove
Rubblebucket’s “Year of the Banana,” released on October 18, 2024, marks a transformative moment for the band. The album draws inspiration from the emotional turbulence of 2015, a year when Annakalmia Traver and Alex Toth, the band’s primary members, ended their romantic relationship, leaving the future of the band uncertain. Despite this backdrop, the album exudes joy, reflection, and healing, embodying the spirit of moving forward through creative and emotional exploration.
The album balances eclectic instrumentation with danceable grooves, blending pop, funk, and rock influences. Tracks like “Moving Without Touching” showcase the band’s signature blend of horns, synths, and upbeat energy, while “Rattlesnake” channels disco-funk elements with a modern edge. Lyrically, many songs are adapted from poetry Traver wrote during that pivotal year, offering a mix of nostalgia, personal growth, and gratitude for overcoming hardship.
Rubblebucket’s playful yet poignant sound aligns them with art-pop innovators like Talking Heads and Kate Bush, yet they remain firmly modern, sharing a sonic space with artists like Caroline Polachek and Chappell Roan. Overall, the album is a testament to emotional resilience, maintaining a celebratory tone even when addressing life’s complexities. Check it out below and let us know your thoughts: