Nine-piece outfit Saskwatch have returned for the release of their sophomore album, Nose Dive.
The great part about having so many members is the unlimited potential to create music. Saskwatch embody this sentiment by utilising their diverse musical skills to meld various genres together in a triumphant display.
The record is brimming with energy, powered by fast-paced drumming and the constancy of the tremendous vocals of Nkechi Anele. Together with the singer, the delirious horns result in a dynamite recipe.
Diverse instrumentation further strengthens the LP, with the use of imposing drums, reverberating keys and guitar, a sexy brass section, a creative cowbell addition, and hand clapping.
Their melding of genres is evident throughout this collection, as tracks like ‘Keep Me In Mind’ and ‘A Love Divine’ work like soul-infused rock songs. ‘Now That We’re Alone’ and ‘Call Your Name’ are climactic ballads as Anele wrestles with anguish, admitting, “when I call your name, I’m filled with regret”.
The frenetic pop tracks ‘Give Me A Reason’ and ‘Hands’ change it up once again, strengthened by lightning handclaps and Anele’s exhilarating staccato phrasing.
Everything Saskwatch produce depends on the strength of their frontwoman, and Anele dazzles with her ability to treat each lyric with delicate care, like in ‘Now That We’re Alone’, whilst also being able to belt out seemingly impossible notes in tracks like ‘Left Me To Die’.
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The instrumentation on this release is breathtaking, highlighted in ‘Nose Dive’ – a celebratory tale of the complex nature and wonder of life, expertly crafted by these magicians of thrilling soul.
Listen to ‘Hands’ from Nose Dive here:
