I want to dance and sway upon first listen. I’m already looking forward to listening to each song again and again.
Sacrifice is an abundant source of innovative production, authentic lyrics, nostalgic and humble homages, and honest poetry. The EP is a testament to the powerful art and dynamic creativity produced when two of some of Melbourne’s most praiseworthy musicians, Silent Jay and Jace XL, team up. The pair create music that transcends convention, yet they still manage to instantly hook you with their sonic artistry.
From as early as the ‘Intro‘ I can tell that this EP will be whole. It reminds me of a foreword in a novel; I feel alerted to the idea that this EP will be create a picture that is complete, with all colours full and vivid. It is a warm welcome into the vistas of their experience, and the art they have to show for it. They draw you into a totally new setting that feels genuine and heartfelt.
‘Just Waking Up‘ is both enchanting and natural – it’s a rare feeling when your body clock follows the turns of the sky and you realise the day ahead of you is yours to share with those you love. I treasure those days. In this track, I also find a new way of loving rolling hi-hats. The combination of harmonised vocals and undulating filters is so fresh, as is the glowing image brought by the sound of the morning birds tweeting at the end of the song.
The lyrics, which make me feel so nice and toasty at times, flow perfectly through the harmonious vessel that is Jace XL. Their music is so musically intricate and clever without ever being pretentious. ‘Sacrifice‘ comes in fittingly. It gives me nice dual feelings of familiarity from having a precious memory of hearing this live, as well as a newfound admiration hearing this in a new context. I am now able appreciate new extents to Silent Jay and Jace XL’s artistry, and details that I perhaps overlooked previously in this song.
From seeing them live alone, it is easy to recognise how artfully they carry the weight of each other’s sound. In ‘Rockabye‘, Silent Jay’s production is smooth, calming and gentle; Jace XL’s lyrics express an endearing sense of vulnerability, while allowing them to resonate in so many surprising ways. The dynamic between the pair is like a 1000 piece puzzle on the floor, dancing, twirling, meandering its way between infinite complete pictures again and again – but they make it seem effortless. The alluring tone of ‘Everybody‘ adds a striking shape to the EP. It stands out in a way that is exciting and delicious.
The feeling of satisfaction exists throughout the whole experience, but continues to shock me. This idea is accentuated in the journey throughout ‘Brisvegas‘. I wonder about the encounters and events that inspired it, as the song continues to develop in a whirling climax. I imagine (and probably hope) it to be the soundtrack of a tale set in the mystical town – Brisvegas.
‘Vibrate‘ is the perfect way to conclude the experience that became from Sacrifice. A high note and a cool down in one, the EP comes to a dignified end with this beautiful song in which I completely soak myself. Both musicians’ voices melt into each other. I feel so positive about the idea that this EP is a debut, and I’m excited to see how Sacrifice will see the deserving pair of musicians thrive.