Although I didn’t realise it, my life was seriously lacking some complex string orchestra-based alternative music until now. Since my discovery of Sasha Siem, this void in life has been completed. Her classically trained musical background forms the main unique element of her music – most tracks are purely string based (e.g. violin, viola, cello, bass), along with her own soft and expressive vocal. No trickery or samples, purely dedicated and sophisticated composition.
New single ‘So Polite’ is an exquisite example of Siem’s musical prowess. Offbeat and clunky rhythms collide with slides and falls at every turn as Siem puts the musicians through their paces. Unusual and unique, plucked notes echo as though bouncing off every surface inside your head, it’s an incredible effect that’s created. This track clearly reflects the English side of Sasha Siem’s Anglo-Norwegian upbringing. ‘So Polite’ focuses on the disgruntlement of British gracious selflessness – “people haven’t asked me if I mind, so I’ll just stay quiet.” As one of those people myself, I can really appreciate towards the end of the song where Siem repeats “I’m fine, I’m fine, I’m fine” growing louder and more erratic and frustrated, as though her real feelings are bound to come spilling out in a moment of anger and madness at any minute. It’s Siem’s passionate performance of ‘So Polite’ that makes it so clear and poignant.
The video for the new track is similarly ominous, a medium close up of Siem miming as different facial features like an eye or her mouth are blurred. The symbolism is quite clear, but nevertheless the outcome is no less disturbing when you realise what’s happening. Sasha Siem’s music is some of the most unusual but intriguing I’ve heard in a long while, her debut album Most Of The Boys is sure to be an exciting listen.
Most Of The Boys is released March 2nd via Blue Plum Records and Sasha headlines London’s Lexington on March 25th.
Elli Brazzill
@littlelionelli
Elli Brazzill
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