“Meatball”, by Autorub: A daring take on rock, with a side of satire to go

Auorub, an up-and-coming rock outfit based out of New York, believes in switching up styles and themes on the occasion to drive a purpose– often blending their music with a healthy dose of satire and tongue-in-cheek political commentary. Their latest single, “Meatball”, is a shot at just that– keep reading for my thoughts!

As the song starts, we’re introduced to this potential backstory of a political figure dubbed “Meatball” in the lyrics. Food references and a subtle nod to a Napoleon complex are evident, as seen in the line “they made you just a little too small.” The song takes jabs at Meatball’s political stances, such as opposing CRT, supporting the “Don’t say gay” initiative, and taking on Disney. Despite the serious undertones, the title “Meatball” adds a touch of levity, akin to the approach in “Autorub.” Overall, I will note that this is a very interesting take, a breath of fresh air in the world of songwriting.

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It only gets better, mind you– from the first chord to the end of the song, “Meatball” (the song) retains this flavourful (apologies for my extended food puns) guitar riffage going through the entirety of the song, serving as the base of the song. There is a lot of catchiness, a lot of infectious energy to take in here– with the chorus having repetitive “Meatball, meatball” chants coupled with breakdowns; and all this comes together rather well to create the kind of tune that you will find yourself subconsciously coming back to after days, if not hours– only to find the experience all the more enjoyable again and again.

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The production showcases a focus on the guitars, as well as the tight, choppy nature of the drumming, which keep this song moving along at a steady, upbeat pace– with the occasional change-up in the ensemble to take one by surprise– yet it all works together rather well! The mix holds things tightly together from a technical perspective, sounding analytical and clinically precise yet having this distinct old-school rock fervour to it that I quite admired.

Overall, “Meatball” by Autorub”: yay or nay? Yay, I’d say– for the power-filled package that this track represents and continues to be in the new wave of a newfound love for rock-and-roll and pop rock. Check out the track here!