Standout Tracks

Not My First Rodeo is comprised of only 4 tracks, all of which are easily standouts….so lets get into it.

Rodeo

Rodeo, is the perfect bite-sized introduction to Karczewska’s music. Simple and stripped-down instrumentals pave the way for Agata’s impressive vocals. The steady drumbeat and rhythm guitar allow the twangy background tones to shine when necessary; less is more when you have something to say. Lyrically, Rodeo paints a melancholic yet complex narrative, touching on contentment, unmet dreams, desires, and regrets. All the while, it’s brilliantly written with an ironically positive undertone, as if tempting life to throw its worst at you: “This is not my first rodeo.”

Dark Horse

Agata Karczewska’s Dark Horse feels like stepping into a dream. The acoustic guitar forms the song’s backbone, while surreal, almost otherworldly tones weave in and out, creating a rhythmic ebb and flow. The result is a lush, hypnotic backdrop that perfectly mirrors the introspective nature of the lyrics.

Thematically, the song portrays a “dark horse”—a woman who is fiercely independent, wild, and enigmatic. There’s an undeniable sense of mystery and individuality in the story she tells. The lyrics have a romantic edge, hinting at a yearning or fascination, almost like a wistful daydream of connecting with or understanding this untamed spirit. There’s a touch of ambiguity too, leaving just enough room for personal interpretation.

Go Ahead

Go Ahead takes a different turn, dialing up the energy with a groovy, jam-band vibe that feels like it’s meant for a lively outdoor festival scene. You can almost picture the crowd swaying under flashing lights. Agata’s tone shifts too—there’s an edge to her voice, a rawness as she channels frustration and anger. She sounds damning and direct, pulling no punches as she confronts the trust issues and strain of a fractured relationship.

What makes the song so powerful is how real it feels. The vulnerability in her delivery, paired with the groovy beat, creates a mix of catharsis and relatability. It’s the kind of track that connects on a personal level, leaving you both moved and reflective.

Harvest

Harvest injects a bold shot of attitude into the EP, standing out as one of the most rock-driven tracks in her repertoire. Crunchy, gain-soaked guitars drive the song forward with unrelenting energy, creating a gritty backdrop for Agata’s layered and defiant vocals. When she belts out the line, “nail me to your shiny cross,” it lands with an undeniable force, adding to the track’s darker, almost apocalyptic tone.

Lyrically, Harvest ventures into ambiguous territory, leaving interpretation up to the listener. It could evoke themes of reckoning, personal growth, or even vengeful catharsis—or maybe I’m just too pea-brained to grasp it. Then again, maybe I’m overthinking it. However, as I type this out while listening to the track on repeat, I’m pretty confident it’s a metaphor for “reaping what you sow.” Thats it, thats my final answer….

Regardless, the track’s weighty metaphorical undertones invite reflection while maintaining a sense of mystery.

With its hard-driving sound and commanding presence, Harvest is unapologetic and electrifying, arguably one of the strongest and most memorable tracks on the EP. It showcases Karczewska’s ability to blend raw emotionality with a fearless rock edge, marking a standout moment in her discography.