Sharktank‘s “3”: A Bold step Towards Expansive Pop
Sharktank’s latest album, “3,” marks a meaningful evolution for the Austrian trio, showcasing a refined sound that balances expansive pop sensibilities with their signature experimental edge. The album demonstrates a clear focus on vocal presence, notably Katrin‘s, which is now more energetic and intense, fitting the larger pop gestures found in tracks like “Crash” and “Dangerous.” These songs possess a songwriting quality reminiscent of major US pop artists like Katy Perry, while still retaining the uniquely “twisted, weird sound” that defines the Sharktank universe.
The album’s core theme revolves around self-finding and breaking free from external influences. As Katrin explains, “The album is very much about dealing with yourself, getting to know new aspects of yourself that you may not have seen before as you have heard to much on other people.With ‘Blade on Me’ it sounds both lyrical and musical to chains, tearing or breaking out of a cage. and that’s the central topic on the whole album.”
“3” demonstrates a willingness to explore new sonic territories. “Bomb Detonator” builds from the lively, electronic crashing sound of their earlier EP “Blindsided” into a rock-infused chorus. Simultaneously occurring, “A Man like ME” slows the tempo, emphasizing hip-hop influences and featuring Mile’s vocals leaning towards a sung, softer delivery than previously heard.
Highlights include “Neon Screen,” a US lifestyle critique that captures a “bigger than life” feeling, utilizing country-esque samples to comment on the American Way of Life.”Cover ups and Hiding” is described as Sharktank’s most supple pop piece, exploring the difficulties of interpersonal relationships and the courage needed to resolve past disputes.
The track “Dig” represents a particularly striking departure, venturing into a cloudrapped, hypnotic soundscape previously unexplored by the band. Katrin notes the extensive work that went into perfecting this song: “This song lasted forever.I think I have never put on the singing so much and have sung in different sessions. But somehow it always sounded unfinished. At the last session, we then pulled all the stops how to deal with vocals. And that was very new for us that we were very microscopically approached the songs and have definitely been in detail. but it was definitely worth it.”
Ultimately, “3” is a accomplished attempt to create a large-scale pop album that maintains its artistic integrity and translates effectively to a live setting. Sharktank will be touring Austria with the following dates:
* 06.11. Arena, Vienna
* 07.11. House im Berg,Graz
* 08.11. Posthof, Linz
* 13.11. Greenhouse,Innsbruck
* 14.11. Conrad Sohm, Dornbirn
* 04.12. Rockhouse, Salzburg.
