ALBUM REVIEW | THE LOTTERY WINNERS – KOKO by Anne Kelly
When you hit the jackpot like The Lottery Winners did back in 2023 with their No.1 charting third album Anxiety Replacement Therapy (ART), there’s always going to be a pressure to keep the momentum going. By no means an overnight success; they have prolifically grafted over the years, building a dedicated grassroots fan base from the ground up which continues to flourish. Keen to get back into the studio, the band spent 2024 crafting their next chapter in between their busy tour schedules, one which included arena tours with the likes of pop icon Rick Astley and globally celebrated rock band Nickelback alongside countless festival line ups. The result of such work? Brand new album KOKO, set for release via Modern Sky on Friday 21st March, with high hopes of of topping the charts again.
“I don’t feel like myself. Then again, have I ever felt like myself?”
KOKO, an acronym for “Keep On Keeping On” – is, at it’s core, an album of self discovery and acceptance. Coming to terms with his own ADHD diagnosis ahead of writing the album, lead singer Thom Rylance makes no secret of his life long challenges with his mental health struggles (you can read about these in more depth via our recent interview with the singer here). Throughout the process of the album, Rylance comes to terms with his diagnosis, taking solace in the clarity and beginning to process why neurodiversity explains many of his challenges, yet equally celebrating his strengths in the process. Opening track ‘Superpower’ is a self affirmative anthem of neurodivergent celebration, all pulled together with the most ear worming hook of a chorus, highlighting the strength of Thom’s word smith talent.
Mental health focused storytelling is nothing new for The Lottery Winners, however, it does feel that KOKO is probably in some way, their most vulnerable and relatable journey so far. ‘Panic Attack’ comes in early on the first half of the record but unfortunately leaves little to be desired, despite being lyrically strong. Previous single ‘UFO’ has anthemic strength, with a heavy sentiment, wrapped in feelings of isolation. Straight from the songbook of new mate, Robbie Williams, ‘UFO’ is a great track yet it lacks the edge that we all know that this lyricist is capable of – think ‘Letter To Myself’ and ‘Start Again’ – ‘UFO’ has the sentiment of those tracks, however it just doesn’t hit the same way.
Some of the album’s finest moments are those featuring some guest vocalists. The album’s first single teaser ‘You Again’ featuring the indie soul giant John McClure of Reverend and The Makers, the release marked a significant turning point for the band who found themselves being projected to the top of BBC Radio 2 playlists. It’s easily one of the most singalong moments from The Lottery Winners to date, and gives the queen of bass, Kate Lloyd, a moment to truly shine on vocals.
The next standout collaboration also gives Kate a deeper role to play with ‘Ragdoll’ featuring one of the biggest rock stars in the world, Chad Croeger of Nickelback. ‘Ragdoll’ captures a deeply vulnerable moment, touching upon themes of a toxic controlling relationships, something which The Lottery Winners have not brushed upon at such depth. Initially, the song appears to be a romantic duet, but a closer examination reveals a darker, more intricate narrative. Despite its somber undertones, the track ultimately conveys a message of resilience, resonating with the album’s overarching ‘KOKO’ mentality.
The midpoint of the album introduces ‘Struggling’, a breathtaking beauty when encapsulates the sentiment of the finished record. The repeated “Keep On Keeping On” forms the core of the track, a phrase which is is echoed throughout other songs on the album. From one extreme mood to another, ‘Struggling’ leads into the floor filling single ‘Turn Around’. From sadness to joy in the skip of a track, the atmosphere is completely flipped, reflecting the often turbulent, non linear journey with our mental health. Starting with the same uplifting message of “Keep On Keeping On” now delivered through a child’s voice, adds an endearment to the track, showcasing the warmth that The Lottery Winners embody, which spills into their diverse fan base.
‘Monaco’ keeping the high energy flowing and radiates an uplifting pop vibe, solidifying the band’s place among the top contenders for the charts. With its heavy synth reminiscent of the 80s, the track offers listeners a nostalgia driven escapism. The collaboration between Thom and Kate on vocals adds a unique dynamic, presenting two refreshing perspectives within one track. The ballad ‘Three Wishes’ brings a fresh change of pace within the album. This heartfelt track is stripped down, showcasing a raw vulnerability in Thom’s voice. When harmonised with Kate’s softer tones and accompanied by string orchestration, the song exudes a warm, spine-tingling quality that resonates deeply.
It’s great to hear Frank Turner back for another collaboration on ‘Dirt and Gold’. Frank is just one of those artists who align with the positive attitudes of The Lottery Winners, often sharing very like minded fan bases. They always sound so good together and generate such an empowering positivity of battling your demons: “The only way I know through the dirt to find the gold” is the repeated message of the track; a reminder that there are always better days to come whilst echoed by the chants of “Keep On Keeping On”, weaving that wider message throughout the album.
Probably up there with my favourite tracks on the album has to be ‘The Ceiling’ featuring Shed Seven‘s Rick Whitter. Exuding an infectious ska energy, Thom’s passionate delivery truly shines through on this one. The familiar chant of “Keep On Keeping On” resurfaces, with Whitter executing the chorus impeccably. Their enthusiasm blends seamlessly, creating a track that resonates with power and intensity.
And lastly, ‘Keep On Keeping On’ shines brightly with its title track, bringing the KOKO journey to a close. This song encapsulates the essence of the album, transforming it from merely a collection of songs into a meaningful journey of recovery, offering encouragement and healing to those who need it, exactly when they need it.
KOKO delivers in two places for me. For the majority of the record, the songs are all quintessentially The Lottery Winners. The energy, the sentiment and passion are all there and each song hits uniquely, leaving you dancing and singing along at every chance. Equally, KOKO digs deep, even if a little too conceptual at times with the repeated “Keep On Keeping On” bordering on subliminal levels of repetition. Yet, I love the concept and it’s message of hope which is so passionately delivered. Absolutely more than just an album, KOKO is an experience. The Lottery Winners continue to make inspiring music from the heart, reflecting struggles they have experienced first hand, yet have stepped up several notches in pure pop sensibility, becoming more mainstream in the process. This band are one of the most hardworking bands in the country and deserve all the glory – and No.1 albums – to come.
You can help The Lottery Winners big chart battle by picking up one of the many variants of KOKO available here.
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