Looking Back at Subway Rat's Debut Album "Stand Clear of the Closing Doors"

Having recently reviewed Subway Rat's new, sophomore album, "Captain of the Football Team," we decided to dive a bit deeper into his catalog to get to know better, the man behind the music.

On his debut album, "Stand Clear of the Closing Doors," Subway Rat (David Polanco) brings a triumphant ode to heartbreak and self-discovery, skillfully weaving his eclectic musical tastes into a sound he can truly call his own. This 12-track project, released in the summer of 2023, has quickly picked up steam since its release, currently boasting around 2 million streams and solidifying Subway Rat as an artist worthy of your attention in the indie alternative scene. Anchored by the captivating first single, "Rendezvous,"

Subway Rat immediately sets the tone for the entire album. Blurring genre boundaries throughout, while seamlessly blending the storytelling finesse of Pop classics with the gritty allure of the alternative scene. Drawing inspiration from iconic New York City bands like The Strokes and LCD Soundsystem, Subway Rat manages to strike a perfect balance between nostalgic comfort and cutting-edge innovation.

The album takes listeners on a danceable, Alt-Rock journey through the mid-00's on the Lower East Side, fusing creative and experimental elements like progressive delays and echoes, with Indie Pop synthesizers to create a distinct flair. The result is a high-energy and emotional experience that showcases the raw vulnerability of Polanco's lyrics, making, "Stand Clear of the Closing Doors," a standout debut. Born and raised in Queens, New York City, Subway Rat's music reflects a melting pot of genres and styles. Fans and critics alike have praised Subway Rat's unique rasp, emotive delivery, romantic storytelling, and edgy dance flow.