SOUP

Sebastian Kole

SOUP

Sebastian Kole is a sing/songwriter who grew up in Alabama and moved to LA in 2012 where he was signed to EP Entertainment and Motown Records. The title of his album SOUP is an acronym for Southern, urban, pop. He came up with the acronym because the sound of the album was all over the place and the record company wanted more focus. The sound incorporated R&B, pop, and singer/songwriter sounds and SOUP was born. He has worked with many artists including but not limited to Alessia Cara, Demi Lovato, Jennifer Lopez, etc.

“Home”

Have you ever been in a relationship that is ending and you aren’t the one wanting to end it? Oh I have.  And you have no idea why they are ending it and want them to tell you to your face. But even through all of that you think of them all of the time and imagine they are with you? That’s what Sebastian sings in this song. “ I’d rather cry with you than be alone.” It’s not often you hear a man sing about those types of emotions. Another thing that doesn’t happen very often is the use of acapella for the instrumental sound. It’s very refreshing.

“Love Doctor”

This song caught me off guard, first with the music and second by the lyrics. I’m not used to hearing a man asking, “What does he do that I don’t?” and “What can he give you that I don’t?” I’ve heard that so many times from my girlfriends. Hearing a guy express his insecurities is a nice change. As with the music, it’s hard to give it a label. It’s a nice mix of genres and reinforces his message with album title. Music doesn’t have to have to be one certain thing.

“Forgive Me For Trying”

This song focuses on his voice. He has such an effortless raw sound. The only music comes from a piano and drums, but the drum sound sounds like a high school marching band. It’s not a bad thing, just different. I think this sound goes back to the album title and not knowing exactly what to call it. As for the lyrics themselves, they remind the song, ”We’ve Got Tonight.” Let’s pretend just for tonight we are together so we can justify sleeping together and worry about regret tomorrow.

“Carry On”

This is the first song on the album that uses something other than a piano and drums. It’s not my favorite but I do like the message. Everyone pretends and puts on a show to be able to carry on through the shitty things that happen in life.

“Priceless”

I love when a man puts himself out there and gives what is important to a relationship, time and love. Money only goes so far. This song has a different beat to it and the notes he sings in the verses aren’t in the typical keys you would hear. The music seems to carry like the waves on the ocean he sings about.

“Choose You Again”

Another song pouring his heart out but this time just his voice, piano, and background vocals. I’m not sure if he does his own background vocals. I couldn’t find any information about that, but it does sound like him. He sings, “Every moment we spend worth every time that I’ve cried.” This is reminiscent of “Home.” Every song seems to be tied to each other in one way or another.

“Pour Me”

This song for me is the saddest of all of the ones on the album and the choice to have just his voice and the piano contributes to the sadness. How many people lose the one they love, or lose something else of importance and turn to substance abuse? It’s a sad existence.

“Love’s On The Way”

Would I dare call this a protest song? Yes, Yes I would.

“Giants”

The beginning of the song reminded me of Two Door Cinema Club. This song makes me feel like I can and will accomplish my goals. If we spend too much time being afraid and not trying new things, things that make us uncomfortable, we prevent great things from happening. Be a “Giant” and not be moved!!!

“Stay”

 This is my favorite song on the album.  It’s honest and raw. It’s one of those songs you listen to when you need a good cry, when you just gotta let it out. And I’ve cried many a times to this song. For me everything about this song is perfect from the music, to his vocals. It’s about fighting for each other…not giving up.

“Remember Home”

This song features Alessia Cara who sings, “Scars to Your Beautiful.” Sebastian and Alessia’s harmonies on this song are out of control. Their voices blend so well. This song reminded me that home isn’t a place but where the people I love are. It’s a nice way to end the album…going home.