EP Review: The Lottery Winners - Start Again

After the triumph of their latest single ‘Bad Things’, The Lottery Winners have released Start Again, their first body of work since their 2020 cover album Sounds of Isolation.

This EP is carefree and playful, yet it exudes a realism that really relates to the climate we are currently living in. Title track ‘Start Again’, featuring Frank Turner, is a heartfelt plea to ‘get up and start again’ when life knocks you down. The feeling of hope and optimism is one that is at the heart of the entirety of the EP. ‘An Open Letter to Creatives’ takes a swipe at the patronising governmental-led promotion that we all saw a few months ago, it fights back - ‘remain, don’t retrain’. It is a reminder to pursue the creativity that encapsulates your art.

‘Bad Things’ featuring Sleeper, is a quirky, pop tune that revels in its dream-like melodies. (For a more in-depth review of this track, be sure to check out our previous review by Chloe Tomkins). ‘Lockdown Lover’ eases you in with a steady beat and harmonies engulfed in elegance and serenity. The lyrics navigate the pursuit of romance and the overwhelming nature of love, ‘I would rather die than let you down’.

‘Bang’ (performed alongside The Wonder Stuff) explores the monotony of life and pushing back against the boredom, it’s a catchy, indie-pop synth record with crashing drums and fun vocals. Its theme is sure to be recognisable and relatable to its audience.

The final two tracks are an expert display of Thom Rylance’s talent for writing lyrics. ‘Love Will Keep Us Together’ is an expedition into the uncertainty of the future. It contrasts its lyrics, ‘I still don’t know what I want to do, I still don’t know where I’m going to’, with an up-beat melody that is wrapped in a sound of enjoyment and vibrancy. The cohesion of its evocative lyrics with its brightness and enthusiasm embodies this EP.

The concluding track ‘Days’, is a stunning expression of not letting life pass you by, with clear influences from the life we are experiencing everyday. Yet, it is hopeful and calming with its string guitar presence and atmospheric background. The song harvests a tenderness and longing that reflects in the yearning for the day when each sunrise won’t go to waste.

Start Again is a considered, well executed and timely reminder to pursue the creativity that encapsulates your art. As we leave the cold and dark nights behind, this EP is an extraordinary consideration of hope for the future.

Words: Lizzie Shaw