Multi-instrumentalist and ARIA award-winning Tash Sultana experiences rediscovery in new EP, Return to the Roots. A decade into their evolution, they step outside of the pressure of the industry and into something deeply personal. This collection of songs doesn’t chase trends with its bold and unfiltered essence. It speaks for itself.
More than a project, Return to the Roots is a statement. After the release of Sugar in 2023, which explored new directions, this EP reconnects with the raw energy that first put Sultana on the map. Moreover, it is a collision of past and future, a feeling of being both older and younger at the same time.
The songwriting feels effortless and intrinsic rather than formulaic. Sultana’s instinct is golden. Every song embodies themes of transmuting pain, nostalgia, and self-discovery, reflecting an emotional journey of growth. The soundscape overall blends reggae, R&B, and indie, representing all shades of Sultana’s discography through the present moment. Free from constraint, she shares dynamic life experiences that are shaped by music.
A Track-by-Track Review
1. “Milk & Honey”
“Milk & Honey” sets the mood with ambient synths and a classic reggae groove. Meditation meets medication, one could say. They sing “Life in the fast lane ain’t all it’s meant to be” in a raspy, ethereal tone, inviting the listener to confront the realities of change and life. The hook sticks with strength, repeating as a melodic motif in the background of the electric guitar-filled outro.
2. “Kiss the Sky”
Maintaining the reggae groove, “Kiss the Sky” takes a turn into R&B territory with a deep bassline and smooth brass. The first minute and a half builds anticipation with vocals nowhere to be heard, simply letting the gorgeous instrumentals shine. Harmonized vocals create the impression of a duet, possibly representing Sultana’s Gemini duality mentioned in “Milk & Honey.” This track solidifies their impressive vocal abilities with seamless switches between registers.
3. “Hazard to Myself”
Bringing down the tempo, “Hazard to Myself” takes a tour of Sultana’s vices. The high-reverb production accurately embodies this feeling of exploring the void, allowing space for thought. The pre-chorus is melodically captivating, specifically where they sing, “And it’s a long way back to earth / With the weight upon my shoulders.” A call-and-response chorus represents two conflicting voices within; one fearful, one tempted.
4. “Hold On”
“Hold On” bears the most emotional weight on the EP, recounting Sultana’s experiences with autoimmune illness and their wife’s cancer diagnosis. In the face of uncontrollable difficulty, perseverance can be much less motivational and more intimidating. Regardless, this eclectic R&B track remains upbeat with an acoustic guitar and a crisp, organic drumline.
5. “Unleash the Rage”
Contrary to the title, “Unleash the Rage” transports the listener into an airy dream. The poetic lyrics abstractly describe what it means to discover one’s true self: “I guess we all start off as strangers / Lay beneath the stars let it fall apart / Take a breath the winds will change.” The layers of background vocalizations linger like magical sounds from the ether, pleasantly re-characterizing rage.
6. “Ain’t It Kinda Funny (feat. City and Colour)”
Collaborating with the talented City and Colour, “Ain’t It Kinda Funny” unearths one of Tash Sultana’s oldest written songs. Inspired by iconic artists like Jeff Buckley and Bon Iver, the track is notably folk-like, marked by an acoustic ensemble and soaring harmonies. The lyrics fade away around 3 minutes in, allowing 3 additional minutes of blissful jamming and riffing, re-emphasizing the psychedelic thruline of the EP.
This EP is a full-circle moment for an artist who built their career on authenticity. From humble beginnings, busking in Melbourne, Australia, and sneaking into open mic nights with a fake ID, Tash Sultana‘s rise has been nothing short of meteoric. The self-taught multi-instrumentalist first captured the world’s attention with homemade recordings, their mesmerizing looped performances quickly going viral. What followed was an evolution few could have predicted: sold-out headlining shows, premier festival appearances, and career-defining accolades.
With over 175 million streams on their Notion EP and hit singles such as “Jungle” receiving global radio play, Sultana’s musical imprint continues to expand. Their ability to command a stage as a solo performer with knowledge of over 18 instruments has become their signature. Every show is a journey, an improvisational experience where technical mastery meets raw emotion. As Sultana takes Return to the Roots on tour, fans can expect an enveloping performance built on connection. For more information on tour dates, locations, and tickets, visit Tash Sultana’s official website.
At its core, Return to the Roots reminds us why music matters. It is not about chasing success or fitting into a mold. It is about creating something real that resonates. It is not about perfection. It is about feeling.
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