After years away from the spotlight, Rizzle Kicks have made a long-awaited return with their brand-new album, ‘Competition Is for Losers’, that was released on February 14, 2025. The duo, Jordan Stephens and Harley Sylvester, first rose to fame in the early 2010s with their infectious blend of hip-hop, pop, and cheeky lyricism. Now, they’re back with a project that showcases their signature playful energy while introducing a more refined and wiser side to their music.
The album is a mix of feel-good anthems and thoughtful storytelling, reflecting both their growth as artists and their ability to tap into nostalgic, carefree vibes. While it still carries the duo’s signature cheeky boyish charm, ‘Competition Is for Losers’ also explores deeper themes, touching on personal struggles, societal pressures, and the ever-changing nature of the music industry as they grow older. The production is fresh yet familiar, with jazz-infused beats, smooth brass sections, and catchy hooks that make it unmistakably Rizzle Kicks.
One of the standout tracks on the album is ‘Pleasure and Pain’, featuring the iconic Maverick Sabre. The song blends soulful melodies with hard-hitting lyrics, creating a track that is both uplifting and deeply emotional, reflected in the lyrics: “the day I saw that building on fire, my heart broke. There is still no justice, years later and there is still smoke”. Maverick Sabre’s distinctive voice adds a rawness to the song, complimenting the duo’s playful yet reflective lyricism. It’s a track that perfectly encapsulates the balance of light and dark tones that run throughout the album, capturing themes of joy while acknowledging the hardships that come with them.
Other highlights include ‘Bad Tattoo’, a reflective yet infectious track that explores the lingering marks of past relationships, and ‘What’s Your Plans’, which brings their signature playful energy while touching on themes of spontaneity, and embracing the unknown during a night out, basically living without care. The album as a whole serve as a reminder of why Rizzle Kicks were such a refreshing force when they first emerged, while also proving that their sound has evolved to suit where they are now in their lives and careers.
Rizzle Kicks first broke onto the scene in 2011 with their debut album ‘Stereo Typical’, which had hits like ‘Down with the Trumpets’ and ‘Mama Do the Hump’. Their unique fusion of hip-hop and indie-pop made them an instant success, and they quickly became known for their playful energy and vibrant live performances. Their 2013 second album, ‘Roaring 20s’, continued their success reaching number three on the Official Charts, but after a few years of touring and releasing singles, the duo gradually stepped away from the music industry to explore individual projects.
Now, with their long-awaited comeback, 2025 is shaping up to be a huge year for Rizzle Kicks. Alongside the release of ‘Competition Is for Losers’, the duo has announced a headline tour across the UK, giving fans the chance to experience their new music live. This new album and tour suggest that they’re ready to fully embrace this next chapter of their career.
For longtime fans, ‘Competition Is for Losers’ is both a nostalgic return and an exciting step forward. It proves that while Rizzle Kicks may have taken a break, they haven’t lost the energy, humour, and charm that made them one of the UK’s most beloved acts. Whether you’ve been following them since their early days or you’re just discovering their music, this album is a must-listen, proof that they’re back, and better than ever.
Ticket information for the tour can be found here.
