SafeeK Photo Credit: Alon Levin
SaffeK became a major player in Israel’s rock scene very quickly, and now their name is a byword for raw energy and pure rock ‘n’ roll. Oren Amitai leads the band, and they captivate live audiences as well as listeners with their dynamic and thrilling energy. Oren Amitai, the leader of SaffeK, has always been motivated by an unwavering love of music. His journey into the heart of rock began in Tel Aviv, where the lively streets and diverse culture provided as the perfect backdrop for his artistic expression. The band’s origins stretch back to Oren’s early days of playing with sounds that were not simply loud, but deeply resonant, with a message that was as impactful as the music itself.
By continuously extending the definition of what rock music may be, the Tel Aviv-based group has emerged as a shining star in the Israeli rock scene. SaffeK’s music combines a great deal of energy, fervent performances, and a close bond with their listeners. Their live shows are nothing short of a ceremony—a celebration of rock that transcends the ordinary, turning every performance into a shared victory of existential joy. Their rise to prominence has been marked by significant milestones, including being chosen as the opening act for the renowned American band Disturbed at the EXPO TLV in 2023. This performance was a testament to their growing influence, showcasing their ability to hold their own on some of the biggest stages.
Furthermore, they became the first Israeli act to perform at the Czech Masters of Rock, an achievement that underlines their international appeal. SaffeK’s track “All Too Human” was awarded Song of the Year by Israel’s Rock radio station, Radio Ze Rock, in 2023, cementing their status as a powerhouse in the rock genre. Before releasing their debut album, SaffeK had already made waves with two EPs: “Dissolve” (2018) and “All Too Human” (2020). These early works laid the groundwork for what was to come, each track a brick in the foundation of their unique sound. With every release, SaffeK has refined and expanded their sonic landscape, culminating in their highly anticipated debut album.
SaffeK released “I/U/WE/US,” their magnum opus and debut album that is nothing short of a rock ‘n’ roll masterpiece, on July 26th, 2024. This album is more than just a selection of songs; it’s a voyage, a statement of the band’s philosophy, and evidence of the transforming potential of music. “I/U/WE/US” is the perfect representation of all that SaffeK stands for: fervor, intensity, and a relentless dedication to pushing the limits of rock music. With “I/U/WE/US,” SaffeK lets listeners into their universe, where music is an experience rather than just a sound.
Every song on this album is meticulously composed to transport the listener through life’s highs and lows with dynamic, thought-provoking music; the essence of what makes SaffeK so special is captured on this album, which marks a major turning point in the band’s career. From the exciting opening track to the soul-stirring ending notes, it’s an emotional rollercoaster of energy, triumphant existential themes, and breathtaking tracks. A powerful statement that relates to the common experiences of the band and its listeners, it’s a celebration of unity and individuality. Not only is “I/U/WE/US” an album, but it’s also an invitation to join SaffeK in their unwavering quest of musical perfection and to celebrate the force of rock ‘n’ roll as a group.
I/U/WE/US Album Track List:
Electrocute:
I was instantly taken aback by the sheer intensity and visceral energy that blasted through the speakers when I first heard “Electrocute,” the lead single from SaffeK’s album “I/U/WE/US.” The show began with a thunderous yell of “Ready!!!” from the lead singer, setting the tone for an exhilarating and thrilling encounter that will leave you feeling as though the music is taking over your senses. With a dynamic beat and progression that seizes hold of you, the anthemic instrumentation is both chaotic and expertly controlled. The supporting vocalists’ clear, pure tones contrasted with the lead singer’s gritty, mature voice produce an enticing yet overwhelming vocal intensity. Just this start had me captivated, curious to see where the song would take me next.
As the music unfolded, I found myself completely immersed in the song’s complex and aggressive soundscape. At the 0:06 mark, the instrumental components revealed themselves in full force—a powerful drumbeat layered with hi-hat touches and hand claps, all building a rhythmic intensity that felt almost tangible. The electrifying guitar strings, combined with the deep, sustained synths, and thick basslines, added a textured depth to the track that was both exhilarating and overwhelming. The music was relentless, the fast tempo and upbeat rock rhythm driving forward with an intensity that was almost suffocating in the best possible way. Every note, every beat, seemed designed to take control of my mind and body, creating a groove that was impossible to resist. The progressions were mind-blowing, the energy palpable, and I found myself completely under the song’s spell.
By the time the vocals returned at the 0:20 mark, “Electrocute” had fully asserted itself as a force of nature. The interplay between the crisp, grungy lead vocals and the warm, rich backup harmonies was nothing short of sensational, adding layers of emotion and depth to an already intense track. The basslines were hypnotic, the guitar riffs mind-bending, and the anthemic drumbeats a true work of art. Despite the song’s relentless energy, there were subtle shifts and transitions that kept the experience fresh and dynamic, never allowing the intensity to wane. It was a breathtaking way to start the album, leaving me both exhilarated and eager to dive deeper into the world SaffeK has created with “I/U/WE/US”.
Dead Poets:
“Dead Poets” from SaffeK’s album “I/U/WE/US” is a captivating journey into a world where music and emotion intertwine in a delicate dance. As soon as the song begins, you are immediately taken to a calm, almost ethereal place where the rhythm guitar’s comforting rhythms envelop you. The intricate interplay between the rhythm guitar and subtle bass progressions created a paradisical atmosphere that I found myself completely engrossed in while listening. These elements come together to craft a rich, inviting soundscape, one that is both smooth and compelling. The slightly midtempo rhythm adds a sense of grace to the piece, and the gentle whistle sounds floating beneath the surface elevate the song to a divine level. It’s as if I was being guided into a dreamlike state where everything was perfectly in tune, both musically and emotionally.
At the 0:40 mark, the lead singer’s voice enters with a soothing quality that resonated deeply within me. His vocals, filled with emotion and grace, carry the lyrics with a passion that is palpable. The blend of his voice with the rhythm guitar and the low, steady bass was nothing short of magical, creating a sound that felt both intimate and expansive. As I listened, I was struck by the subtle touches that enhanced the overall experience—the delicate piano chords, the gentle whistle, each note adding another layer of beauty to the composition. The song’s ability to meld these elements so seamlessly is a testament to SaffeK’s mastery of their craft. Every moment felt meticulously crafted, yet effortless, allowing the music to flow naturally and envelop me in its warmth and serenity.
Just when I thought the song had reached its peak, “Dead Poets” unveiled a new dimension at the 2:10 mark. The transition to this fresh sound was nothing short of perfection, as powerful yet calm drum rhythms, smooth basslines, and gentle electrifying guitar strings emerged, bringing a new midtempo intensity to the track. This shift added a glorious and magnificent energy to the song, breathing new life into its already captivating melody. The evolution of the song felt like a natural progression, taking me on a journey from tranquility to a place of dynamic, rhythmic beauty. It’s a song that lingers long after the final note, a true masterpiece that showcases SaffeK’s ability to create music that is both deeply moving and artistically brilliant.
Touch Me Hold Me:
“Touch Me Hold Me” from SaffeK’s album “I/U/WE/US” is an intricately crafted sonic journey that blends calming serenity with powerful, electrifying energy. From the moment the track begins, I was drawn into its unpredictable yet pleasing soundscape. The song opens with deep, reverberating tones that immediately set a profound mood before transitioning into celestial piano melodies. These melodies are not just soothing but also elegant, creating a divine ambiance that felt both serene and introspective. When the lead singer’s voice enters, it does so with a magical quality—clear, emotive, and filled with a graceful passion that perfectly complements the instrumental backdrop. It’s a moment of pure musical beauty that feels like a calm before the storm.
As the song progresses, it takes on new life, beginning at the 0:20 mark when the composition starts to evolve. I was surprised by the introduction of a multitude of voices chanting in unison, creating an energetic yet melodically pleasing atmosphere that sent chills down my spine. Then, at the 0:25 mark, the powerful entry of the drum beat brings an undeniable intensity, setting the stage for an explosive moment. The sustained, electrifying strings of the guitar that follow add to the song’s growing momentum, creating a transition that is nothing short of ecstatic. This shift in energy is breathtaking, and the midtempo rhythm that follows is infused with a vibrant power that permeates every element of the track, from the instrumentation to the vocal performances. The rhythm’s progression towards a more contemporary feel is executed with precision, making the transitions seamless yet impactful.
As “Touch Me Hold Me” continues, it dances between various rhythmic patterns, flows, and progressions, each one more engaging than the last. I was captivated by how the song moved from soft, serene piano melodies to a deeper, bass-heavy sound, only to shift again into a more energetic and vibrant soundscape where the drums and electrifying guitar strings took center stage. The song’s ability to navigate these different soundscapes with such fluidity is truly remarkable, making it unpredictable yet irresistibly attractive. Each transition is perfectly timed, keeping me fully engaged and eager to see where the song would take me next. By the end, I was left in awe of its complexity and beauty—truly a work of art that exemplifies SaffeK’s mastery of music as a form of emotional and sonic expression.
The Great Wind:
Listening to “The Great Wind” from SaffeK’s album “I/U/We/Us” felt like being swept away into an ethereal dreamscape. This song possesses a hypnotic quality that gently pulls you into the enchanting world that SaffeK has crafted—a world where each note feels like a soothing balm for the soul. From the very first moment, I found myself lost in its calming melodies, which are designed to transport you to a plane of serene beauty and introspection. The song opens with hauntingly sustained synth sounds that immediately create an eerie, yet welcoming atmosphere. These synths set the stage for a journey where the music feels almost otherworldly, healing in its simplicity and depth. Shortly after, the delicate strings of an acoustic guitar weave into the mix, elevating the sound to something celestial. This combination of synths and acoustic guitar is spellbinding, creating a paradisiacal backdrop that feels both soothing and deeply immersive.
As the song unfolds, the lead singer’s voice enters with a calming and soothing presence that adds another layer of emotion to the already rich soundscape. His voice carries the lyrics with a grace and passion that I found deeply moving—it’s clear, emotive, and inviting, perfectly blending with the instrumental backdrop to create a transcendent experience. Each note, each word feels carefully placed to evoke a sense of tranquility and introspection, making the song not just a piece of music but a deeply personal journey. The interplay between the lead vocals and the haunting instrumental creates a seamless flow, a slow tempo rhythm that is progressively consistent yet always evolving. It’s this evolution, this careful progression of sound, that makes the track so captivating, drawing you deeper into its hypnotic embrace with every passing second.
As “The Great Wind” nears its conclusion, the song gains a brief yet impactful intensity. This is introduced through the powerful touch of drums, sweet piano scales, and the grungy strings of guitars, creating a poignant highlight that contrasts beautifully with the song’s otherwise soft and laid-back nature. It’s a moment that feels like a gentle awakening within the dream, a reminder of the powerful emotions lying just beneath the surface. The inclusion of backup vocal melodies towards the end adds to the song’s exotic and exceptional nature, sounding almost like a symphony of divine beings harmonizing in a realm of pure bliss. By the time the song ends, I was left in awe of its beauty and complexity—SaffeK has indeed created something truly special with this track, a piece of art that is as endearing as it is exceptional.
I couldn’t help but be in amazement at what SaffeK had accomplished as I came to the end of “I/U/WE/US.” This album will take you on a journey through the highs and lows of the human condition, which will surprise you. It’s an album that invites repeated listening and allows you to lose yourself in it. There’s music here for everyone, regardless of your taste in loud, energetic rock or more reflective, poetic tunes. This release from SaffeK has definitely exceeded their own expectations, and I’m excited to see where they go from here. More than just an album, “I/U/WE/US” is a statement of intent from a band that is here to stay.
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