Sam Cobra - Supernova

Sam Cobra

​Supernova
self-released; 2019

​3.9 out of 5

By Dan Weston

Stephanie Ward (vocals/guitar/viola), Thom Beckman (guitar), Jim Freeman (bass) and Rodd Karp (drums/vocals) are Sam Cobra. The band formed in 2016 and will be releasing their debut album Supernova next month. I have to say I think waiting a couple of years for a band to really gel is a smart move.

​It is way too often I notice bands releasing full albums only months after they form. The proof is in the pudding with Supernova that the band in those years formed a very tight unit with an undeniable chemistry that can only be created with diligent practice.

The music really is pretty varied but falls under the umbrella of rock. Some of the music falls into psychedelic rock. There are ballads, anthems and more. They open with “Prelude.” This very ambient and dreamy cosmic soundscape made me think I was going to hear shoegaze or even post-rock. The title track “Supernova” is way too aggressive and driven for shoegaze. There is a good amount of attitude and energy in general. It reminded me of “Barracuda” by Heart at least in the kind of fun, dirty rock n’ roll.

“Odyssey” was a unique song. It starts off slow and builds into a fast driven song that sounds a bit like older R.E.M on steroids and an Irish sea chanty drinking song. The song threw me for a loop but it was cool and fun.

They slow things with “Uproar” which is both beautiful and dreamy. I liked the mysterious vibe on this song. “Earth” could be a single. The reverb laced vocals sound great on the chorus. They continue to have success with the catchy “Yesterday” and the somewhat nostalgic and almost country tinged “Satellite.”

“Witch” was a highlight. The song digs into that mysterious vibe again with cosmic and ethereal qualities. “Late Last Night” might be the most infectious song. The beat is fast, the melodies are catchy and the energy is upbeat. They slow things down with the ballad “Parallels” and end with the mild yet seductive energy of “Stargazer.”

The album is great from beginning to end not only because of the quality of the individual songs but the flow you feel as you experience it.

Become A Fan

official website

Tweet