Rising star Sarina shines brightly with her latest EP, Break Out!! Hailing from the eclectic backdrop of Tokyo and enriched by her Hawaiian roots and Lebanese-Japanese heritage, she weaves a rich tapestry of sound and sentiment. From a young age, she was a multi-instrumentalist who embraced music as her mode of self-expression, mastering everything from piano to drums. After establishing her artistic voice through her earlier works, including the EP Foreword and several impactful singles, she co-founded her label, SyrenSong, to take her artistry into her own hands. With “Break Out!!,” she showcases her evolution as an artist and invites listeners into her innermost thoughts and emotions. Let’s break out into this EP and experience its goodies!
The EP kicks off with “Living in the Moment,” a previously released fan favorite that encapsulates the essence of seizing the day. The track features punchy guitar riffs and an upbeat tempo, creating an infectious energy that mirrors Sarina’s exuberance. Her vocals are bright and full of life, effortlessly drawing us into her world of spontaneity. The production, helmed by Grammy-winning Erik Ron and Escape the Fate guitarist Kevin Thrasher, strikes a balance between polished pop sensibility and raw punk energy, setting the tone for the rest of the EP.
Following closely is “Skip a Beat,” another single that builds on the EP’s theme of emotional exploration. Here, Sarina plays with a catchy melody that tugs at heartstrings while maintaining a playful edge. Her vocal performance is dynamic, alternating between soft, introspective verses and a catchy, anthemic chorus that invites us to join in. The production shines with layers of instrumentation, including shimmering synths and a driving bass line, creating a rich auditory palette that complements her narrative.
Moving on, “Don’t Wanna Break Your <3” offers a change of pace as Sarina explores vulnerability within a relationship. Here, her delivery softens as she confronts the reality of possibly letting someone down. There’s something magnetic in this track’s simplicity; a smooth, haunting melody, matched with lyrics that sound as if they were meant to be whispered. It’s easy to picture this song making its way onto playlists for anyone with a chill vibe that is soothing. The production enhances her vulnerability, stripping down the instrumentals at pivotal moments to let her voice resonate, raw and unshielded. With a beautifully built chorus, Sarina’s vocal control is on show, balancing delicacy and power to convey strength and tenderness.
“Artist With an E,” the album’s fourth track, is a standout with a dash of irony and self-awareness. In this track, Sarina describes the trials of finding authenticity in a world that prizes aesthetics over artistry. Her vocal delivery is rich with frustration but also humor—there’s a tongue-in-cheek quality here, and she’s unafraid to showcase her personality. The instrumentation is as dynamic as her narrative, starting with an amazing intro that gradually layers into a robust soundscape of crashing cymbals and distorted guitars, perfectly matching her lyrical journey from self-doubt to unapologetic authenticity.
In the track “Hold Me,” Sarina digs deeper into her psyche, expressing feelings of longing and inadequacy. This song is a poignant reflection of wasted potential, delivered with a haunting vulnerability that resonates with some of us who have ever felt we don’t measure up. Sarina’s vocal delivery here is raw and emotional, with a slight quiver that perfectly captures the essence of the lyrics. Her delivery effortlessly shifts between ethereal and beautiful, demonstrating impressive range and control. Also, the instrumentation supports her powerful message, featuring a blend of acoustic and electric elements that build toward a heart-wrenching crescendo.
The standout single “Why am I so sad?!” showcases Sarina’s ability to blend angst with infectious energy. With a fist-in-the-air chorus and a catchy melody, this track captures the relatable feeling of sadness without a clear cause. Sarina’s energetic delivery is juxtaposed against introspective lyrics, allowing for both anthemic sing-along moments and reflective pauses. The production is lively and punchy, with driving guitars and an upbeat tempo that makes it impossible not to tap your feet. These melodic touches added depth and nuance to the song, creating a rich sonic texture that rewarded a repeated listen.
As the EP draws to a close, Sarina introduces us to her self-proclaimed “cutest song,” “I know nothing.” This track is a delightful exploration of life’s uncertainties, filled with whimsical imagery and charming lyrics. Sarina’s vocal performance is playful and light-hearted, embodying the carefree nature of the song. The instrumentation is equally whimsical, featuring playful melodies and an upbeat rhythm that invites a smile. Sarina’s perspective on the futility of trying to control life is humorous and comforting, encapsulating the ridiculousness of existence in a relatable and profound way.
With “Break Out!!,” Sarina invites us into her world; a kaleidoscope of youthful emotion, relatable struggles, and unabashed honesty. Each track is a testament to her growth as an artist and a storyteller, blending pop-punk energy with introspective lyrics that resonate deeply. The collaboration with Erik Ron and Kevin Thrasher has resulted in a quality production that elevates Sarina’s already captivating songwriting, creating a polished and authentic EP. As she continues to break boundaries and redefine her sound, Break Out!! stands as a powerful declaration of her artistic vision. This EP is an invitation to embrace the complexities of life and the shared experiences that unite us all. So turn up the volume, let the music wash over you, and join Sarina on this thrilling journey of self-discovery and emotional expression. This is my first time listening to Sarina and I’m loving it!
Listen to the “Break Out!!” EP on Spotify
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