If you’ve been following the Kiwi Rock scene for a while now, you’ll be familiar with the names Silence The City, Quarter 2 and Broken Avenue. One of the main drivers behind these epic bands has been by groove-master Sam French.

In recent times Sam has made the big move from Auckland down to the weather-struck Hawkes Bay, and somehow through recent events, with his new act Say or Do has managed to pump out this wicked new single Awake, which is mixed and mastered by the guitarist of one of my favourite all time Kiwi rock bands based out of Los Angeles, Matt Brooks from Like A Storm.

Now it’s fair to say, I know Sam from way back as we kicked in around in the same muso circles for some time, even did a stint together in a band called Ubiquitous and we’ve certainly lost touch, but I have always admired the work he’s done. Getting to review this single is an absolute treat.

The blurb for Awake reads as ‘Awake describes the feeling of waking up for the first time following an epiphany or sudden realisation – allowing you to see the world in a new light.’ This strikes a chord with me as we start to get older and have families, these moments become more and more frequent. I’m stoked to hear that the sudden realisation isn’t one that has affected Sam’s ability to write insanely good music or change his direction too much. This track is strong & powerful, although not hugely heavy. It carries all the good roots of a raw rock tune, but with hugely bluesy undertones.

Anyone know has read a review by me knows I like to give you a hint of another band that I could associate sound-wise with the review, so in a desperate attempt to try and give you a glimpse into what the tune sounds like without hearing it, try and picture Daniel Johns (Silverchair) singing over Days Of The New, but maybe throw some Joe Bonamassa in there for good measure.

I am blown away by Sam's voice – I’ve only really ever known his backing vocals, but as a front man, it’s clear as day that’s where he deserves to be. Voices as gritty and powerful as his are rare. I’m glad he’s managed to showcase it in this awesome tune.

After hearing this, I’m expecting to hear a lot more from Say Or Do, and I wish Sam all the best getting these tunes in front of a tonne more listeners. He’s doing epic work and I can’t flaw it. You can check out more from them here: Say Or Do Facebook.

Available streaming from 31 March 2023, pre-save from 24th.

• 1
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• 2
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• 3
  Horror Story
• 4
  Fur Patrol
• 5
  L.A.B.
• 6
  Michelle Rounds
• 7
  Devilskin
• 8
  The Boondocks
• 9
  The Feelers
• 10
  Late to Chelsea

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• 1
  APT.
  ROSÉ And Bruno Mars
• 2
  DIE WITH A SMILE
  Lady Gaga And Bruno Mars
• 3
  BIRDS OF A FEATHER
  Billie Eilish
• 4
  TASTE
  Sabrina Carpenter
• 5
  I LOVE YOU, I'M SORRY
  Gracie Abrams
• 6
  ESPRESSO
  Sabrina Carpenter
• 7
  SAILOR SONG
  Gigi Perez
• 8
  LOSE CONTROL
  Teddy Swims
• 9
  A BAR SONG (TIPSY)
  Shaboozey
• 10
  GOOD LUCK, BABE!
  Chappell Roan

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