Selling out Margaret Court Arena with record-breaking attendance, gold accreditation on the ARIA charts, and radio success in numerous locations around the world, all with just an EP and a few singles. On Flow State, Sultana plays every single instrument heard (all 15), that in itself is no mean feat, but, to do it at such a high calibre? This is something special.
‘Seed’ is a sultry jam. Employing both Sultana’s rusty reggae-like vocals, and similarly influenced guitar, it serves as the perfect introduction. Its lyrics speak of the state of Sultana’s mind and soul, and how she finds them.
‘Big Smoke’ has earned itself an adaptation for this record. That’s the way Sultana operates. Her music is constantly shifting and changing. It’s so cohesively put together that you truly feel like you’re entering Sultana’s mind.
On ‘Cigarettes’, Flow State’s notably more pop track, you’re taken through several stages. Utilising hard-hitting electronic drums, and some clean guitar, Sultana makes reference to moments of getting high in order to try and fix problems. One common theme of Flow State is reflection – on the way our minds work, and how we cope and evolve as people.
‘Seven’ and its accompanying track ‘Salvation’ are synth heavy. One notable theme on the latter is Sultana’s sense of self, a necessity for her own independence. Sultana’s guitar solo is mesmerising, her playing seamless.
‘Pink Moon’ and ‘Harvest Love’ both could be considered as focal points for Sultana vocally. The beauty of her voice has an idiosyncratic quality; you can hear and feel each and every breath she takes.
‘Free Mind’ is a perfect example of Sultana’s unique sound – a touch of reggae, a bit of soul and rock. Her lyricism is intrinsic to her music – she has the ability to capture a listener, and take them along with her. This record represents a quantum leap – a major milestone in her seemingly short career. But don’t underestimate Sultana. This is just the beginning.
9/10
