I first wrote about Sabrina Song for Staged Haze after I saw her perform at Baby’s All Right, opening for Georgia Gets By. Her captivating energy was both enthralling and comforting. Talking to her about her debut album, which dropped today, felt the same but with an added element of wonder. The way she articulates her thoughts and emotions surrounding the process of creating this first work is inspiring and mature beyond her years.
Sabrina fits snugly into the indie folk-pop genre alongside artists like Clairo and Maggie Rogers, but she brings her unique sound to the table. Using both piano and guitar, she brings her stunning lyrics to life. Her romantic themes, internal exploration of self, and friendships are woven throughout the album. Sabrina confessed, “I knew it was something I wanted to do eventually, but when I was releasing music for the first time, I had such low self-esteem. It didn’t feel plausible creatively or logistically.”
By the end of 2022, Sabrina felt ready to take on the challenge of creating a full-length album, and in November, she applied for a grant that funded the album. “It was kind of a kismet thing,” she said. “When I found out I got it, it was full steam ahead in a real way. My only goal was to be 100% proud of the music and not feel like I had to cut corners or rush.”
The album opens with “Before and After,” where Sabrina sings, “I have a yearning dream.” The simplicity of the piano and delicate chimes draw you into the album’s introspective mood. Sabrina’s voice is so delicate that it makes you listen even more intently. On “Afternoons,” she continues to showcase her delicate voice and poignant lyrics, creating an atmosphere of introspection and tranquility. In “Okay Okay,” she postulates on different possibilities and things she would do for someone she loves. The song’s contemplative nature is both relatable and deeply personal.
“Rage” is a standout track due to the juxtaposition between its intense title and its delicate sound. Sabrina admits her fear of being misunderstood, making the song’s vulnerability all the more powerful. “Busy Work” captures the essence of its title with rhythmic chimes that feel like busy work itself. Set in summer, Sabrina talks about painting the deck and sings, “If you could stay in one spot, I’d love you the same.” Reflecting on the process, she shared, “When I finished recording all of it and listening to it, I couldn’t think of a word or phrase that would encapsulate the takeaway from the album. I kept going back to that lyric because it felt like the only thing you could pull from the album that just felt right.”
“Do You Think About It Too?” is a slower groove where Sabrina sings, “Why do I give your head a place to rest in mine?” This lyric poignantly expresses the notion of someone living in your head rent-free. “Yellowstone,” a song she previewed at Baby’s All Right, features lyrics that make you stop and listen. The guitar plucking is gorgeous, highlighting Sabrina’s talent as a lyricist.
“It Was Not a Beautiful Night” turns up the rock vibes with a cathartic breakdown. Sabrina incorporates piano accents beautifully, creating a dynamic and powerful song. The album ends with “Happy to Be Here,” a sweet and fitting conclusion. At Baby’s, Sabrina covered a Carole King song, and you can hear the musical lineage in this final track.
Sabrina’s journey in music has been one of continuous learning and growth. “When I started, I had always written songs and loved performing, but it wasn’t until high school that I really started songwriting and finishing songs,” she recalled. “By the time I got the grant, I felt secure enough in my abilities as a producer and comfortable collaborating with an amazing engineer who understood my vision.”
Her inspirations are rooted in her peers and the local music scene. “Anytime I leave even the smallest local show, I just know what it’s like,” she said. “Okay Cowgirl, local to Brooklyn, and my friend Jules Olson are truly amazing. These people deserve the highest platform, and we’re all kind of in the same community.”
As her debut album finally releases, Sabrina feels a mix of excitement and nervousness. “I’m in the eye of a hurricane trying to take it in,” she admitted. “I’m just so happy to have something that really speaks to who I am as an artist.”
Sabrina’s debut album is a testament to her journey, her growth, and her unyielding dedication to her craft. It’s an album that not only showcases her talent but also offers listeners a deeply personal and introspective experience.
You Can Stay In One Spot, And I’d Love You The Same is out now.
Pingback: Brooklyn Bands Unite for LA Wildfire Relief at Baby’s All Right