Meet LAB RAT, the Melbourne-based alt-rock grunge-rap artist who’s captivating audiences with his profoundly personal and emotionally charged music. Born Dylan James, LAB RAT’s journey as a musician is marked by resilience and transformation, having faced and overcome trauma, depression, and addiction.
His distinctive sound, forged from a fusion of grunge, rap, and alternative rock, serves as a testament to the therapeutic power of music. LAB RAT’s latest single, “Exit Path”, released via Mushroom Pillow Music, delves into the lasting impact of childhood trauma. Through searing lyrics and an explosive blend of rap and rock, he invites listeners into his world, where vulnerability and strength intersect.
In this exclusive interview, LAB RAT offers a rare glimpse into his creative process, sharing the inspirations and emotions that shaped “Exit Path”. He also reflects on his musical evolution and the deeply personal themes that underpin his work. With candor and intensity, LAB RAT reveals the complexities of his artistry, illuminating the mind behind the music.
This conversation provides a nuanced understanding of LAB RAT’s vision, creativity, and determination, mirroring the intensity and introspection that define his remarkable sound.
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Exit Path is an intriguing title. What inspired the concept behind this project, and how did it evolve from idea to final product?
Its original name was ‘Spencer Park’ however we decided to rename it a couple of days before release. It evolved very quickly, the instrumental was written in about 10 minutes and 3 months later I’d finally worked up the courage to try
finish it vocally.
Can you walk us through your creative process for this upcoming album? Did it differ from how you’ve approached previous projects?
I think I just got better as a song writer. It was written during covid so it was a little restricted but thankfully by the time covid hit me and my producer both had bedroom set ups so we could keep creating.
What is the central theme or message you aim to convey with Exit Path? Is there a particular narrative or personal experience that influenced the music?
It’s all in the music.
How does this upcoming album reflect your musical evolution? Are there specific influences or styles you drew from when crafting the album?
I think our sound got a lot more refined on this album. As much as I love doing it, I’ve always struggled with blending hiphop with alternative music but I feel like we did a good job on this project.
The sound feels dynamic and layered. Were there any artists or genres that influenced its sonic direction?
A lot. Instrumentally it’s been influenced by many bands from the alternative 90’s scene
Vocally, the flow is actually super influenced by Grime artists like Dizzee, P Money & D double E
Do you have a favourite track from the album that holds special meaning to you? What’s the story behind it?
You are not Alone & Lucid Dreams always hit different.
There seems to be a darker, introspective tone to some tracks on the album. Can you share the emotions or experiences that shaped this mood?
Addiction, Depression & Reflection
What kind of emotional journey do you hope listeners experience while listening to the album
I hope the album can help anybody who needs it.
I hope at the bare minimum you enjoy a couple of riffs.
Do you have any visual components or music videos planned for the album? How do the visuals complement the themes of the album?
We’ve got an amazing music video done for ‘Exit Path’ and I’m pretty sure in a few months we’ll have another one done for the single ‘Drunk’
How does Exit Path set the stage for your future work? Should we expect more releases in a similar style or will you explore different musical directions?
I’m honestly not to sure. I think it will get heavier in the future but we’ll see.
What’s next for you following the release of the album? Are there any upcoming projects or collaborations you’re excited about?
I’m very excited for the album to drop, I already have the follow up written and I just want the people to hear it.
The album feels deeply personal at times. How much of your own life and experiences made their way into the lyrics and production?
A lot.
Looking back, what has been the most rewarding part of creating this album? Any lessons or insights you’ve gained from the process?
I learn a lot with the process of every album but the lesson from this one is to
let go of control.
