Siala embraces pain and trauma in order to heal on ‘BLACKOUT’

After taking some time away from the spotlight, Siala has returned with the adrenaline-fueled ‘BLACKOUT’ to spread a message of embracing one’s wounds in order to effectively heal. By harnessing frustrations derived from traumatic experiences in their personal life, Siala utilises ‘BLACKOUT’ to ensure that the pain doesn’t win out, ultimately opting to embrace a newfound clarity in the face of their own endured struggles. Having contested on the 2020 edition of The Voice Australia, Siala has transitioned her natural musical nous into rapping, with ‘BLACKOUT’ following Siala’s catchy back-and-forth collaboration with Brisbane artist Penny Paypal, ‘USE ME’.

There is something endearingly fearless about ‘BLACKOUT’ that instantly grapples the listener in. It is undeniably bold through the manner in which Siala unapologetically and authentically conveys themself, and through the determination subsequently shown by Siala and producer Nerve to compose a track so evocative of Siala’s wide tapestry of influences and capabilities as an artist. Siala’s bars are equal parts introspective and incisive on ‘BLACKOUT’, taking aim at their own unawareness to the extent of an effect they were having on relationships with those they held dear: “Broke her heart, made me fix it, like a fuckin’ paramedic, send the message”. Additionally, Siala’s wordplay is tenacious – “Call me Popeye way I’m puffin’ up on the green, pumping up on the steel, floating up on the steam” – and is amplified by their truncated delivery which stands out as something completely unique in the Australian scene.

The production on ‘BLACKOUT’ matches the confident energy exuding off of Siala, as Brisbane producer Nerve flexes his creative muscles to craft a ceaseless and unpredictable beat that merges a multitude of influences, the impact of which leaves the listener hooked in a non-stop crescendo of head-bopping, crunching bars delivered by Siala. And in an impressive display of their sonic flexibility, Siala delivers heartfelt, aching vocals in the hook, which effectively contrast with the oomph and bravado of their rapping. The refrain is visceral in its ominous and surreal nature, beckoning the listener in with the seesawing that is being created by the enhancements to Siala’s vocals. Finally, the outro retains the groovy beat whilst drawing elements of electropop that remain with the listener long after the track is over.

Words by Matthew Badrov