Formed in 2012, Sparrohs is a great new rock band from Switzerland. Their new album, We are the People, was released this year. It is an immense album with varied subject matter and encompassing many rock genres. As the band says, “Our music focuses on truthful lyrics, hot content and hot energy, which is what makes our unique brand of music, Hot Rock!”
The founding members include: Brian Phillips, from New Zealand, the song writer, guitarist and vocalist; Olive Brooke, of Danish/Swiss, decent, who is also a lead vocalist. In 2018, the band grew to include: Sebastian Unfried, from Austria, who is the band’s cameraman, roadie, flag-bearer & promoter. Soon after the band added dancer Victoria Androuin, from France.
Sparrohs have released 7 albums, beginning with their first, “Quintessential”, which was released in 2013. They say they have another 8, in different stages of production, with expected release dates planned for the autumn of 2021.
The band’s music has travelled the world in popularity. The band has performed in many locations around the globe. Performing live, filming music videos and producing music is what inspires the band members most.
Every track is full of great energy and good lyrics. My favorite tracks were the fast-moving opener, “47 Strings”, using the talents of both lead singers to drive the music. It sounds a little like some of Imagine Dragons pace and power.
“Carousel” is a real showcase for Olive Brooke’s voice, with some fantastic lyrics. It is a great song about waiting for someone to have the same feelings of love. A very deep and emotional view, from the female perspective.
“Fair Child” is a wonderful song about surviving all that life throws in front of us. A mother, Olive Brooke, discussing how she will help and nurture her child, through life’s pitfalls and on to the triumphs. She sings, “I am with you all along the way. And all you have to do is say, “I’m coming home”, and you’re coming home to me”. The metaphor may extend beyond the love of a mother for her child, but I’ll leave that to your thoughts.
“Fallen Soldier”, is poignant and relevant today, especially with the situation in Afghanistan and the battles we have seen between the vaccinated and unvaccinated, during this global pandemic. Olive Brooke sings, “My brother, the reason we lifted our arms, against each other is a curse to the living. Oh, there are better things to die for. If I could only give my life once more. I’d be standing there in front of you. And take the bullets for the love of you”. This is a very emotional anti-war song and a cry for us to treat each other better, to avoid violence. But again, I found another way to interpret the lyrics from this line, “I’d give it all to save you for the love of God, to save you!”
“Hot Rock Stones”, opens with a cool James Bond-like theme, and is full of energy. It feels like the band’s fight or theme song. It will probably be played often at their live shows.
“I Am Victoria”, is a beautiful song, and showcase for Olive Brooke’s vocals, with great support from Brian Phillips. Very dramatic and almost cinematic at times. Easily one of the best songs on the album. An escape to freedom, and a new life, in Victoria. With Brian Phillips as the major songwriter, possibly New Zealand. Brooke sings, “I am opening up the doorway. Into another world. I’m calling for you. Meet me there. It is where. We can be free. Victoria!”
“Lazarus”, is an excellent song, full of emotion and power. Back from the ‘grave’, building on the famous Biblical story, from their own perspective. Olive Brooke sings lead vocals, with great support from Brian Phillips, “There was a call for me. It was my destiny. But before this time I didn’t know. Now it is clear, I see. I was meant to be someone. A freeborn soul. So, I say ‘Yes’ to the truth that’s in me. ‘Yes’ to the beauty of living. Give me nothing. I’m leaving. Leaving death at the door!”
“Samurai”, is another excellent historic record of the past. The music and vocals are some of the best on the album. Dramatic and a perfect representation of the subject matter, complete with stomping drums.
“Sexy Spirit”, is all about enjoying life, in every way!
The closer and title track, “We are the People”, is full of emotion and a powerful message. The band’s sings, with Olive leading, “We are the people. We are the ones. Who walked the world before you. We are not gone! We are the people. You are not alone. It’s true and time will show you. We are not gone!”
Track List
- 47 Strings – 3:55
- Carousel – 4:33
- Fair Child – 4:43
- Fallen Soldier – 3:42
- Ghost Lover – 3:29
- Hot Rock Stones – 3:19
- I Am Victoria – 4:20
- Koma A Leidt – 4:27
- Lazarus – 3:38
- Samurai – 4:24
- Sexy Spirit – 4:02
- We are the People – 3:42
“We are the People“, is an excellent album from a great new band. They have the ability to play everything from rock, pop, some hints of country, progressive rock and soft metal. A very diverse sound with energy and adventure throughout their music. They love to travel and shoot videos from all over the globe. They respect the past and treat it with great dignity. One of the best band finds of the year. Probably will finish in the top ten of the year.
https://www.facebook.com/sparrohs/videos/1006636616784259