A British/Australian artist who has struggled with loneliness, family break up and drug addiction releases his first UK single this month after finding support from the music industry.
Dylan James, known as Lab Rat, immersed himself in the punk and metal scene in Victoria Australia as a teenager but became locked in a cycle of substance abuse and mental health issues.
The artist ricocheted between family in the UK and Australia before finally finding a musical home with European label Mushroom Pillow, known for its innovative approach to music. The death of his brother in a car crash was one of the events that stirred him to find a creative outlet and to make a better life.
His single Exit Path reflects on the trauma which locked him into a pattern of self destructive behaviour and on the way he finally found a different path. He says he hopes it will help others realise there is a way out.
Lab Rat says: “Exit Path is deals with themes of childhood trauma, depression and the ongoing problems that will haunt you through adulthood.
`’It’s a personal story about using drugs as a coping mechanism to keep suicidal tendencies, bad memories and dark thoughts from knocking at your door. The first verse is written about myself, the second verse about an ex-girlfriend going through similar problems and the chorus is about always managing to get sober for a while until your memories begin to haunt you again and you fall back into old habits just to make yourself feel comfortable/ content in your own skin.
`’I wrote it in the hopes that anyone else going through the same thing might not feel as alone”
Dylan’s story is one of redemption and resilience, a testament to the transformative power of music and the indomitable human spirit. Through triumph and adversity, he continues to defy the odds, inspiring others to persevere in the face of darkness and uncertainty. As he navigates the uncharted waters of the international music scene, Dylan remains steadfast in his commitment to authenticity, channeling his experiences into art that resonates deeply with audiences worldwide.
Listen to Exit Path here:
