Playtime Rabbit: A 15-Year Journey from Youthful Naivety to Artistic Maturity
As 2023 unfolds, the year is marked by renewal and reflection for the Arlington-based rock band, Playtime Rabbit. Having initially debuted their musical journey 15 years ago, this year represents a significant milestone for the group as they revisit their past while boldly venturing into new territory.
The band’s first EP, Year of the Rabbit, was released when the members, Chris Bell, his brother Jordan Bell, and Jordan Oliver Hall, were in their late teens and fresh out of high school. Although they took the EP offline for a time, it has recently re-emerged on Bandcamp, allowing both new and long-time listeners to explore the roots of their musical journey.
Chris Bell, now 30 and the band’s frontman, reflects on this early work with a sense of nostalgia. “Some of the songs seemed a bit naïve in nature,” he observes. “I was a suburban kid at the time. We have grown as a band, and now it seems appropriate to share the EP alongside our other work, including our full-length album, 2018’s Primitive Dream, and several singles and demos.”
The catalyst for revisiting their previous recordings is the release of a new EP titled In the Glass Ring. Recorded at Green Audio in Fort Worth and mixed by longtime collaborator Brandon Keebler, this new material represents a significant evolution in the band’s sound. “With this EP, I want listeners to see that we are comfortable experimenting with different styles,” Chris adds, highlighting the artistic journey between their prior work and this latest offering.
The band members have experienced significant life transitions, including family commitments and professional responsibilities, which slowed their creative output in recent years. However, Chris expresses optimism about their current trajectory: “We’ve found a cohesive voice that clarifies our artistic vision and work. We have more time to write and create together than we did before.”
In reflecting on their early days as a live band, the members fondly recall performing at local Fort Worth venues like The Aardvark and Lola’s. Their excitement for the upcoming EP-release show at The Cicada underscores their commitment to returning to the live music scene that played a vital role in their development as musicians. “This show is exciting because it marks our return to the Fort Worth scene, where we truly cut our teeth,” Chris remarks.
Musically, Playtime Rabbit has carved out a distinct niche, often categorized within the shoegaze genre. Their sound features complex sonic textures and delicate guitar arrangements. As a seventh-grade English teacher, Chris draws inspiration for his lyrics from classic literature and science fiction, blending artistic influences with lyrical depth. For instance, the song “The Shrike” is inspired by Dan Simmons’ novel Hyperion, showcasing the band’s ability to weave literary allusions into their music.
Looking ahead, Playtime Rabbit plans to embark on a mini-tour through Oklahoma and Austin, aiming to broaden their audience and connect with listeners. As bassist Hall succinctly puts it, “The trajectory of the band is to play more shows, write more, and gain a bigger following.”
This Friday, they will perform at The Cicada alongside supporting acts Darstar and Assisted Living, aiming to reinvigorate their relationship with local fans and showcase their musical evolution.
As Playtime Rabbit continues their journey, both fans and newcomers alike can expect a powerful combination of matured artistry, intricate compositions, and dynamic performances that celebrate their past while confidently stepping into the future.
Event Information:
Playtime Rabbit
Date & Time: 8 PM, Friday
Location: The Cicada, 1002 S Main St, Fort Worth
Tickets: ; All Ages Welcome
