Freestyle funk-rock songwriter and guitarist Sam Uctas celebrates the best of a creatively free-flowing approach to modern music.
Noting hints of influence from the likes of Hendrix and Zappa, the heavy pedal use and experimental flair of the guitar playing backs up a rhythmic and lyrically intriguing approach, making Redacted Lines a fascinating but also stylistically satisfying new album.
Redacted Lines the title-track opens things up and is all of this, a contemporary narrative backed by Jimi’s iconic tone and playing, with clear twists of funk and indie-rock in the groove and melodic vocal simplicity.
Then for the likes of Falling Out, we continue down this provocative rabbit hole, elevated by the energy and expression of the guitar sound, grounded by the humility of this intimate, compelling vocal lead. Fast-paced lyrics are nearly whispered, at the same single-note drone as the former track, but meandering through a whole new lyrical venture that again holds attention brilliantly well.
Boldly distinct, thoughtful and entertaining, a pleasure to listen to at volume – Sam Uctas ticks a lot of boxes with this project, blending the timeless appeal of established guitar playing, with the quirky traits and contemplations of a singer-songwriter for whom artistic expression is essential as a pathway towards clarity and calm. The music, in turn, offers the same sense of escapism and serenity for those who dive in.
Find Sam Uctas on Instagram.
