Judas kissing Jesus would end his life. Although ancient, this classic story of betrayal can parallel the love we fall for, trusting those who weaponize our weaknesses and misuse our hearts. Drawing upon religious themes, Sadye’s debut single “Biblical” shares how we can, just as easily, return to those who hurt us, despite knowing better. The song raises interesting questions about self-blame, accountability, and victimhood, cloaked inside an upbeat yet contemporary pop song. She says “I take the bad to get the good from you”, enduring a situation because there is some good, some light. Many circumstances in life can feel like this—purgatory—stuck between something that could be worse or could, potentially, be better. Oftentimes, we must take a scary leap to find out.
Starting with heavy-hitting drums, cello-sounding synths, and speedy violin arpeggios, Sadye’s voice has a light, airy quality, resembling well-known artists like Astrid S. and Kim Petras. The subtle reverb and delay on her vocals further add to the song’s intended message, almost like she’s speaking to herself, some words being lost in space. The song introduces the lines “Don’t go easy on me”, in a breathy whisper, followed by pitched-down vocals that create a sense of conflict, like she’s fighting with herself over who's to blame. The bridge transforms into a religious chant, proclaiming “Blind faith, lonely, hurt me”, a haunting yet beautiful element of the song, speaking to how anyone can be magnetized by “love” at their lowest moment.
Already being featured in Atwood Magazine, EarMilk, among other topical blogs, Sadye’s celestial sound and cohesive aesthetic has quickly garnered the up-and-coming artist 33K streams on Spotify. Inspired by her struggles with cancer, toxic relationships, and up-hill battles with self-worth, her sound strives to bring a light, dancey energy to our deepest thoughts and insecurities. Sadye’s instagram features snippets of heartfelt piano ballads and funny captions, like “Life can be traumatizing but you are pretty and eternal” and “I’m delusional but it got me here so it’s fine”, revealing a witty, humorous personality that molds darker moments into ones of light. Inspired by The Weekend and Charli XCX’s pivotal electronic sound, I’m convinced she’s Paris Hilton’s long lost sister, aptly standing in front of the Scientology building to promote her new single (genuinely made me laugh). Although she’s just beginning, I believe her refreshing dark-pop sound will captivate many, creating, as she calls it, a cult following.
Written by: Conner Pettit
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