Rob’s Album Of The Week: Ravi Shavi’s Special Hazards

Providence’s Ravi Shavi make music that’s contagious. It’s classic garage rock that flows rhythms, charisma and swagger. This often results in people dancing, moving around and going absolutely bonkers immediately after theiy hear the first strum from frontman Rafay Rashid’s guitar. They’re such an exciting band to be immersed in and their third LP, Special Hazards, that was self-released on July 13 is another great showcase of what they bring musically. If you love the fury and energy of rock & roll, this album is ideal listening material.

In the album, Rashid is joined by an ensemble cast of musicians. New York City based drummer Harrison Keithline lends his talents on every track. Deer Tick’s Ian O’Neil, Nova One’s Roz Raskin and Emily Shaw & Kate Jones from The Sugar Honey Iced Tea are also involved in various songs. Jesse McFadden produced and engineered the record while Bradford Krieger handled the mastering. There’s definitely a bit more of a polish to Special Hazards versus Ravi Shavi’s previous releases, but it maintains that trademark edge to the way it sounds.

With COVID-19 still being here, do you feel a bit detached from everything? Like you’re not making an effort to do so but the amount of time you’ve spent inside has gotten you trapped in your own head? That’s what I’ve been sort of feeling these days. As the…