Sabatta – How To Get Even
Sabatta’s latest album, “How To Get Even,” is a sonic journey that effortlessly blends the influences of Living Colour, Jimi Hendrix, Queens of the Stone Age, and Funkadelic. The result is a unique and authentic musical experience that pays homage to the past while forging a path into the future. One of the standout features of this album is the raw and lo-fi quality of the guitars. The production choices add a layer of authenticity to the sound, giving the impression that you are listening to a live performance. It’s a refreshing departure from overproduced tracks, creating a genuine and original atmosphere throughout the album. The overall mood of “How To Get Even” is undeniably funky and groovy. Despite being labeled as a rock album, each track invites the listener to move with its danceable moments. Sabatta challenges the notion that rock music is incompatible with dance, seamlessly integrating infectious rhythms that make it impossible to sit still. Yinka Oyewole’s vocals are a dynamic force on the album, offering a rollercoaster of emotions. Raised in Essex with Nigerian heritage, Oyewole brings a unique perspective to the table. His vocal range spans from raw and gritty to melodious, creating a sense of progressive rock, especially when considering the variance in time signatures throughout the tracks. The album’s personal touch is evident in its style, establishing a distinct musical identity for Sabatta. The eclectic tracklist contributes to this individuality, with each song standing out as a piece of the larger puzzle. From the soulful “To Love Me Is To Know Me” to the energetic “Get Over Yourself,” the album explores a spectrum of emotions and musical styles.
Here’s a glimpse into the diverse tracklist:
- “Something”: A captivating opener that sets the stage for the eclectic journey ahead.
- “Get Your Shit Together”: A straightforward, no-nonsense track that embodies the album’s attitude.
- “To Love Me Is To Know Me”: Soulful and introspective, showcasing the depth of Sabatta’s musical prowess.
- “Plugged In”: An electrifying instrumental that highlights the raw power of the guitars.
- “Blood Sweat and Tears”: A testament to the emotional intensity present in every note of the album.
- “Get Over Yourself”: Energetic and infectious, encouraging listeners to let loose and dance.
- “Not Today”: A defiant anthem that adds a punch to the album’s narrative.
- “Take You There”: A sonic journey that explores new territories within the album’s musical landscape.
- “Here I Go Again”: A moment of reflection that adds depth and variety to the overall experience.
- “How To Get Even”: The titular track, serving as a centerpiece with its distinctive sound and message.
- “One Chance To Be Free”: A liberating conclusion that encapsulates the album’s overarching themes.
- “Small Victories”: A fitting finale.
The personal touch, combined with the unique blend of influences, creates a musical ID that is unmistakably Sabatta’s own.
Photo Credit: photo by Marisa Knight