Jacked Up - Jacked Up

Jacked Up

Jacked Up
self-released; 2016

​3.7 out of 5

By Andrew Westberry

Lifelong musicians Krista Ravengael and Victor Sabula are the two contributing members of Jacked Up, a Portland-based rock band set upon capturing the raw sound of drums, guitars, and vocals and reproducing them in recordings. The band’s first recording, a self-titled EP, was recorded in a home studio, and it combines elements of classic rock, punk, and alternative genre with a straightforward attitude and style.

Krista’s vocals dominate the soundscape of “Duchovny vs Skarsgard”, the opening track of the record. Her unfettered emotion is magnetic, and her in-your-face lyrics are backed up by a solid set of drums and screaming power chords on electric guitar. The energy of the song starts off high and only builds as the track progresses at lightning pace.

The hard-hitting style of Jacked Up continues in “Nummy Camel”, with Krista infusing atonal interjections throughout her singing, making for a unique singing style that is extremely memorable. Upbeat guitar riffs and a simple yet catchy beat lead the track through multiple verses and choruses before ending on a spectacular note.

Perhaps the most danceable song on the album, the intro of “Mansplaining” features a pulsing bass drum, slightly subdued electric guitar, and reverb-laced vocals, which all seem quiet in comparison to the explosive sounds that follow the track’s intro. The rough piece’s instrumentation reflects the sarcastic, satirical lyrics of the tune, a feat that is not easy to accomplish successfully.

The record comes to an energetic end with “Marriott Cruisin’”. There are no stylistic surprises to be found in this track; rather, this song highlights the elements of punk, alternative, and classic rock that Jacked Up draws upon in each of their songs. Overall, the Jacked Up EP is a testament to the band’s ability to comprehend, apprehend, and synthesize a particular attitude and sense of human existence, and many fans will find solidarity with the band’s work, as well as finding an stylish, catchy album to enjoy many times.

Become A Fan

bandcamp

Tweet