Project Description

POISON OAK
“Sarah”
(Single Review)

Release Date
19th February 2021

Pre-Save – HERE

Reviewer: Amelia Torresan

.

.

‘…instrumentally dynamic and lyrically powerful’ 
 – Dan Condon, Double J Editor

‘Love the dynamics, and the use of harmonies throughout that bring fresh sensibility’ – Nkechi Anele – Triple J Roots ’n’ All

‘Poison Oak knows how to create a classic aesthetic’ 
 – The Sounds Won’t Stop

.

.

After months of hyping up their upcoming music, North Queensland quintet Poison Oak have finally released their newest single ‘Sarah’ from their upcoming EP ‘1996’ to the masses. The indie-rock band made (air)waves with their previous single ‘Waiting,’ also from the same EP which was released in October last year, receiving multiple features and reviews in magazines throughout Australia and around the globe.  

‘Sarah’ begins with melodic acoustic guitar, plucking an echoing riff before introducing the breathy, rustic vocals of lead vocalist James Blathes. As the song progresses, additional instrumentation, i.e. electric guitars, is added to the song, bringing a smooth and gradual change in dynamics and depth, ready to peak in the chorus. James Blathes’ vocals are doubled and harmonized with, emphasizing the lyrics in the pre-chorus and chorus. Poison Oak knows how to keep a song interesting, engaging the listener with every bar, with changing dynamics and layers throughout the song. James Blathes’ vocals also become less breathy as the song progresses, instead becoming more powerful and passionate, driving the message of the song.

“I hope you find a better place to stay a little safer than today”

.

.

“Tell me what I’ve done, is your mind playing tricks again?” 

Poison Oak confess that for them 2020 did not go to waste, instead it was spent writing their upcoming EP ‘1996’, what they describe as their “most mature body of work yet” with ‘Sarah’ being no exception. The band state that ‘Sarah’ is about “processing old traumas,” an important part in understanding oneself and moving on. Just by listening to the lyrics and the passion behind the vocals, the lyric “I hope you find a better place to stay a little safer than today” makes me think that the ‘better place’ isn’t literal but mental, as if once the past is processed, it’ll improve one’s quality of life. You can’t change the past, but you can learn from it and it’ll make you stronger.

Poison Oak’s sound reminds me a lot of ‘The Killers,’ fresh and authentic, while also having a familiar rock sound. I’m sure ‘Sarah’ is the song that will resonate with a variety of people both lyrically and musically, showing the full force that is Poison Oak. If you’re a fan of The Killers, Gang of Youths, Powderfinger, or just want to discover some great new music, check out Poison Oak’s newest single ‘Sarah.’

.

Pre-Save – HERE

.

.

Check out POISON OAK below
 Facebook – Instagram – YouTube 

.

.

AMNPLIFY – DB