As if channeling another dimension where genres simply don’t exist, Rainbow Kitten Surprise finds harmony in unpredictability—weaving together lyrical poetry, hummable melodies, and a rush of instrumental eccentricities. Preceded by tracks “LOL” and “Superstar,” the North Carolina-bred quartet’s forthcoming album LOVE HATE MUSIC BOX—the creative vision of singer/songwriter Ela Melo, guitarists Bozzy Keller and Ethan Goodpaster, and drummer Jess Haney as well as former bassist Charlie Holt—represents a brand-new awakening. After years of struggling with her own mental health that resulted in writer’s block, on-stage episodes, and tour cancellations, Melo was properly diagnosed and treated in 2023, vastly improving her quality of life. Suddenly struck by creative intervention, songs once again poured out of her, writing at least one a day for an entire year and forming the backbone of their 22-track opus. Produced by Daniel Tashian (Kacey Musgraves) along with Konrad Snyder (Noah Kahan) and Melo, the album ponders life’s ups and downs, and traces the turbulent trajectory of relationships, painted out loud in hues of pop, electronic, rock, and hip-hop.