Upon hearing the words ‘Rebel Yell’, your mind might initially drift back to Billy Idol‘s glitzy 80s pop-rock hit. However, this Sydney-based producer and performer would rather lure you back to your favourite filthy nightclub at 4am in 2004. Reminiscent of Kim Gordon‘s recent work and Charli XCX‘s jagged experimentation, REBEL YELL‘s latest EP, Miss Worldwide, captures the cheeky musicality of 2000s club culture that so many of us feel nostalgic for.
Miss Worldwide opens in digital euphoria. The blend of experimental techno instrumentation and repetitive reverb on the first track, ‘Heaven’s Blade’, transports the listener back to Y2K club classics. REBEL YELL’s expressive lyricism pairs seamlessly with the ‘Born Slippy’-esque accompaniment, generating an infectious sense of confidence. It’s a fitting opening track, perfectly encapsulating the messy atmosphere of a favourite dive bar.
The EP’s second track, ‘Scorpio’, brings a smooth shift in musical palette. REBEL YELL’s lyricism takes a more daring approach, with a sensual and playful energy running through its electronic sound. REBEL YELL tells the listener that she wants to “see you on your knees…on the floor begging for me”. As with the opening track, there’s an unflinching sense of confidence and empowerment here, encouraging self-expression and sexual freedom.
While the first two tracks focus on uplifting the listener, the third, ‘Burner’, offers scathing criticism of those who dismiss REBEL YELL as an artist. She turns their comments back on them, mockingly calling herself “a spoilt little princess” whose “parents pay for everything”, before hitting back with “it’s pretty fucking rich of you to talk shit”. In a world where women’s achievements are so often diminished, REBEL YELL refuses to let such commentary undermine her capabilities. The confidence remains, but this time it comes with a sharper, more confrontational edge.
The final track, ‘Theme’, shifts the focus towards self-identity. REBEL YELL’s lyrics about how she “likes to play dress up…I like to show my soul” offer an insight into womanhood, fashion and self-expression. On an EP that encourages listeners to reflect on the many dimensions of womanhood, it’s fitting that ‘Theme’ urges us to appreciate the nuances of identity.
Whether you’re at pre-drinks with your closest friends, mixing a DJ set for your first club appearance, or simply finding the confidence to debut a new look at your favourite bar, Miss Worldwide brings a healthy dose of self-assurance to the dirty club scene.
Miss Worldwide is available to stream on all major music platforms.