Royel Otis – ‘Hickey’ Review: A Sun-Kissed Journey Through Young Adulthood

Explore the vibrant vibes of Royel Otis’ latest album ‘Hickey’—a breezy, guitar-driven soundtrack to youth and heartache.

Royel Otis: Surfing the Wave of Rising Stardom

If you’ve been tuning into the indie music scene lately, you’ve probably caught the infectious energy of Royel Otis. This Sydney duo has been on an impressive upward trajectory, snagging coveted spots at festivals like Glastonbury and winning over fans with their 2024 debut album. Their unique blend of woozy guitars and hazy vocals has not only earned them viral fame—thanks to a killer cover of Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s “Murder on the Dancefloor”—but has also solidified their place as one of the most exciting new acts on the scene.

With all this momentum, their sophomore effort, Hickey, arrives like the perfect soundtrack to late summer, capturing the essence of young adulthood in full bloom.

A Breezy, Minimalist Sound That Feels Like Home

One of the first things you’ll notice about Hickey is how Royel Otis have refined their sound. Gone are the days of sprawling, multi-layered tracks; instead, the duo opts for a leaner, more focused approach. Each song clocks in under four minutes, honing in on a handful of strong, memorable elements rather than overwhelming listeners with complexity.

Guitarist Royel Madden’s shimmering riffs and singer Otis Pavlovic’s dreamy vocals float effortlessly over intricate drum patterns and synth flourishes. The result is a collection of tracks that are instantly recognizable as Royel Otis, each carrying the warmth and haziness of sun-drenched afternoons.

The Highlights: From ‘Car’ to ‘Good Times’

Songs like “Car”, “Say Something”, and “Good Times” perfectly showcase this signature sound. The single “Car” drives forward with laid-back grooves that feel like cruising down a coastal highway, while “Say Something” hypnotizes with rhythmic persistence and Pavlovic’s soft vocal haze.

“Good Times” wraps the trio of highlights with an uplifting mood that feels both nostalgic and fresh, a soundtrack to those bittersweet moments of youth.

Embracing Simplicity: A Double-Edged Sword

While the minimalist songwriting approach is a bold step, it’s a double-edged sword. Royel Otis’s decision to keep things tight and charming works beautifully on most tracks, but at times it borders on playing it safe.

The instrumental “Who’s Your Boyfriend” hints at deeper songwriting ambitions, offering a glimpse into the band’s potential to push boundaries. Yet some tracks resort to clichés that feel a bit too familiar. For instance, “Moody” includes divisive lyrics like “My girl’s a bitch when she’s moody”, a line that might not sit well with all listeners and makes the track feel somewhat uninspired.

Similarly, “Dancing With My Self” is catchy but risks being forgettable, while the album closer “Jazz Burger” feels like a filler track—pleasant enough but lacking its own strong identity.

Royel Otis at Their Most Confident

Despite these minor stumbles, Hickey feels like Royel Otis at their most self-assured. Their recent years of performing live have clearly taught them the formula for crafting back-to-back summer anthems that exude good vibes and Aussie charm.

It’s a record that captures the highs and lows of young adulthood in a way that’s relatable and heartfelt, without the need for over-the-top production or complicated lyricism. Still, one can’t help but wonder if a little more experimentation or hunger to innovate would have added some extra layers to this otherwise thoroughly enjoyable album.

Album Details You Should Know

• Record label: Ourness/Capitol Records
• Release date: August 22, 2025

Final Thoughts: A Summer Soundtrack Worth Your Time

Royel Otis’ Hickey is a genuinely charming dive into the trials and triumphs of early adulthood. With its sun-soaked melodies and stripped-back feel, it’s an album that feels like the perfect companion for those lazy summer afternoons and introspective nights. While it leans heavily on familiar territory, its warmth and sincerity make it hard not to fall in love with the duo’s unique brand of indie pop.

FAQ

• What makes Royel Otis’ ‘Hickey’ stand out?
  The album’s minimalist approach, featuring shimmering guitars and hazy vocals, provides a fresh yet nostalgic take on young adulthood.
• How long are the songs on ‘Hickey’?
  Each track is under four minutes, focusing on strong, simple elements rather than complex arrangements.
• Are there any standout tracks on the album?
  Yes! “Car,” “Say Something,” and “Good Times” are among the most memorable and showcase the duo’s signature sound.
• Does ‘Hickey’ explore new musical territory?
  Some tracks, like “Who’s Your Boyfriend,” hint at experimentation, but overall the album prioritizes a warm, familiar vibe.
• When was the album released?
  dropped on August 22, 2025, under Ourness/Capitol Records.

Ready to bring some of that sun-kissed magic into your own space? Shop your favorite Royel Otis album cover poster at our store and let those laid-back vibes brighten your walls. Explore the collection here.