Ready Fire Aim – This Changes Nothing
Ready Fire Aim is the collaboration between super artists Sage Rader and DJ/Producer Stakka. The duo is soaked into the sounds of 80s British synth pop and lets be honest who doesn’t love that period and its artists. They also throw in a few modem twists as well with some Reznor-esque moments on the record. The record is not all dark and broadening. For example, on the wonderful “Happy Love Song.” Lyrically, it touches on a lot of interesting themes such as “you say I’m like Charlie Manson” and “you be the devil and you be god” as he tries to convince a young lover. It is a delightfully screwed up love song.
“Beautiful Thing” is the albums “club” track with it darting keyboards sounds that go everywhere and pretty tight programmed beat. The dark tones really come out on “Lush But Dark.” The beat on the track is really hard and pounding its almost nearly metallic at times. Sage gives his best vocal here with a throaty and lofty vocal that just carries and slides over the top. “Wannabe Your” is the albums pop song with its catchy guitar riffs and a solid hook..
The album on the whole was a compelling listening on for the fact of Sage’s vocals. He is not going to blow you away with his strong voice but there was something to them. He has these doltish tones that sound like he is almost speaking. The music behind the really one of a kid vocals does provide you with a lot of variety as well keeping the record fresh and smooth throughout. The record was missing that one truly stand out song. Fans of the syth pop should have a listen as it should be right up with you.
By John Siwicki
