Figure Eights by Nichole Saphos Band: Album Review

by Gabe Finch March 14, 2023

March 14, 2023

Figure Eights by Nichole Saphos Band: Album Review

Nicole Saphos Band’s latest album, ‘Figure Eights,’ is a pleasant and eclectic combination of indie rock, funk, and ballads that highlight Nicole Saphos’s diversity and originality. Nicole’s lifelong love of patterns is central to the album, as each song delves into diverse themes such as anxiety, time travel, and alternate life paths.

With its broad blend of musical inspirations and harmonic boldness, ‘Spend a Little Time’ kickstarts the album and encourages the listener to take a breath and spend a little time for themselves. ‘Keepin’ Eyes,’ is a creative and catchy indie rock song that shows John Lee’s superb and sparkling guitar work. ‘And Only’ is a quirky musical interpretation of Emily Pauline Johnson’s 1903 poetry, while ‘Stoic Companion’ is a beautiful and atmospheric tune inspired by the idea of a coyote talking to a mountain. ‘Tryin’ To Be’ is a funky and improvisational track that highlights the band’s versatility, while ‘Thoughts Over You’ is a whimsical and tongue-in-cheek interlude that pays homage to jazz greats such as Charles Mingus. ‘My Purpose’ is a driving rock song with parts of country bookending the intro and outro, while ‘On Hand’ is a slower, lyrical track with sad themes relating to time travel and different life pathways that tugs at the listener’s heartstrings. ‘More’ is an enthralling and anthemic rock song that builds to an emotional and grand conclusion. The album concludes on an introspective note with the closing track, ‘Anything More?’, a mellow and poignant number featuring Nicole Saphos’ ukulele and voice.

Overall, ‘Figure Eights’ is a beautifully produced well-crafted and diverse album. It is a delightful and fascinating listen with its broad blend of genres and themes that will appeal to fans of indie rock, funk, and ballads alike.