Sarpa Salpa – Another Life

‘Another Life’ is the brilliant new track from Northampton indie rock band Sarpa Salpa, who take their name from a fish which, when eaten, can cause hallucinations.

Perhaps this is why their music sounds so dreamy. ‘Another Life’ is tinged with 80s synths and modern indie influences, but most of all, is just a fun track to dance to.

The first thing the opening synth made me think of nostalgically was ‘Losing My Religion’ by REM – although it sounds completely differently. A funky bassline along with vocalist Marcus’ captivating voice makes this one of my favourite songs in a while. The band says: “‘Another Life’ tackles the idea of being completely head over heels in love with somebody, devoting everything to them. However, despite the warning signs, you cannot bring yourself to admit that your love is unrequited, your optimism outweighing what you know – that you’ll never quite have the love you’re giving reciprocated.”

Despite 2020 being extremely turbulent, it was a widely successful year for the band. They completed a 10-date tour in February, before reaching wide exposure through airtime on the BBC, particularly through Radio 1’s Jack Saunders. The release of singles ‘Forwards Backwards’ and ‘Stick To What You Know’ helped them get onto Radio 1’s Virtual Big Weekend, before they managed to complete their upcoming second EP, of which this is the lead single, in December. They’re looking to continue this momentum into 2021, with ‘Another Life’ already being crowned BBC Northampton Introducing’s Track Of The Week.

Currently, I’ve got this one on repeat through my headphones, and already having listened to a few of their older tracks, this band knows how to make a banger. Check them out, you really won’t be disappointed.

Ryan Powell