Mixtape Review: YONAKA - 'Seize the Power'
The last year has taught us all to seize the day. The last year has taught YONAKA to Seize the Power.
Following from their stellar debut record Don't Wait 'Til Tomorrow, the Brighton-based rockers have been working on a new mix of major hits and catchy tunes. A seven-song summation of their work since their last release, it can be daunting and occasionally a curse that would lead a band to fall further than they've ever risen - however, this isn't the case for YONAKA. There's no slowing down, no changing, no falling from grace; this is evident from the mixtape's title track. 'Seize the Power' is the only taster the band released before dropping the tape in its entirety, and it was a perfect build-up for what was going to be a musical journey. Two tracks in and it's obvious that the guys have moved on but haven't detached themselves from Don't Wait 'Til Tomorrow. The evolution is real, but the change is natural and that's what keeps them fresh and exciting in the UK rock scene. This is pure YONAKA.
One of the heaviest and beautiful tracks is 'Clique'. The song sees the band collaborating with Fever 333, another group who are proving to be up and coming heavyweights in the scene, and taking on a fusion of the two acts' sounds. Bonding brilliantly over the shouted choruses, the electronic surroundings, and the theme of independence and inner-strength brought to the forefront of it all by the voices of frontwoman Theresa Jarvis and Fever frontman Jason Aalon Butler.
Possibly the most powerful track on the tape, if there was any way to introduce someone to YONAKA and Fever 333, there would be no hesitation to show them 'Clique'.
As the mixtape concludes with 'Call Me A Saint', it leaves the listener just wanting more. The same cravings that were left at the end of playing the band's debut: more, more, more, louder, louder, louder. There is something energising about their sound, their style, their whole concept that revitalises UK alternative music. It's easy for acts to replicate those of the past - maybe those of high influence in the genre - but YONAKA came out with something unique and special, and managed to keep it up over two years and one pandemic later. They know who they are, and they know how to play those roles just right.
It's time to prepare, get ready, have a listen and learn the words. You will be singing them before you know it.
They've seized the power. Now it's time to seize the world.
Words by Jo Cosgrove