Today, SunSquabi announced the release of their third full length studio album, Arise. Due on October 26th, 2022, the 11-track studio project is the band’s first full length studio effort since the 2019 release of Instinct. Inspired by the band’s experiences throughout the pandemic, Arise showcases SunSquabi’s unspoken sonic communion amongst three distinct musical identities in an entirely reimagined way.
“Since we’ve all been put down very hard for the past two years, the entire world has felt this pressure, sadness, and struggle,” observes Kevin Donohue (guitar, keys, production). “So we tried to relay a message of arising from the ashes and becoming something new. This album shows how we’re able to do so during a really tough time.”
Making the best of their circumstances, the band embraced a slightly new approach in regards to the creative process for Arise. “A couple of songs came together as jams in the basement or on livestreams,” recalls Kevin. “We’d rework these improv-based ideas in the studio. It was an extended process. We definitely took advantage of the time.” Josh Fairman (Bass, Synth) added that “We’re very proud of the band staying true to the music and to each other. We came together during the Pandemic and made sacrifices together. We’ve bonded as a band. We don’t try to jump on any trends. We’re true to ourselves and make music we feel in our hearts.”
In celebration of the announcement, the band has shared a studio cut of “Scorpion”. Penned during the pandemic, “Scorpion” has become a staple of the bands live catalogue since its February 2021 hometown debut at Cervantes' Masterpiece Ballroom. A delectably danceable tune, “Scorpion” stings between a shimmering beat, fluorescent keys, and fretboard-burning guitar.
“Scorpions are symbols of danger and death, a scorpion is usually a warning.” Josh said when discussing the song's creation. “ However, a scorpion may also show up in your life as a blessing. It’s similar to how we were able to take this dark period of time and turn it into a blessing and a symbol of power.”
Adding his own comment, Kevin shared that “Playing this song live is like flying an ion-powered space fighter through the claws of a galaxy sized Scorpion. The apex of the song really takes me there every time and we've been using some unique features live such as a live sidechain to really create the pulse in the bass.”
In the weeks leading up to the release, SunSquabi will be on the road for a slate of festival appearances including Elements Music and Arts Festival, Sacred Road, Resonance Music and Arts Festival and Jam Cruise. For additional information and to purchase tickets, please visit www.sunsquabi.com/tour-dates.
Limited edition vinyl packages and merchandise bundles are available now for pre-order - HERE
“Scorpion” follows the release of single “Elephant Song” ft. Dominic Lalli (Big Gigantic)
SunSquabi
ARISE
Tracklist:
Water Level
Elephant Song feat. Dominic Lalli
Middle Of The Night (Panther) feat. Iya Terra
Motion Transfer
Steam Cat
Scorpion
Torque
Mantis
No Friction feat. Chris Karns
Milkshake Machine feat. Jason Huber of Cherub
The Hornet
