“The Fool” is Tokyo-based alt-rock artist Sarina‘s latest EP, and it marks a turning point for her sound. This record has a much darker and more cinematic sound and atmosphere than her 2024 “Break Out!!” Album. The new direction makes sense because thematically this record dives deep into identity and self-reflection, and interestingly pulls from tarot imagery.
The EP is named after the first card in the tarot deck, and Sarina uses that idea to explore different sides of herself: the villain, the jester, the one who’s been fooled. It’s the perfect symbol for an artist discovering new sounds because “The Fool” in the tarot deck represents new beginnings. On a side note, the production here has some star power; it was handled by Kevin Thrasher (Panic! At The Disco, Blink-182) and mastered by Maor Appelbaum. It really gives these songs an incredible sheen.
The EP kicks off with “Toast to the Broken,” probably the most punk-influenced song on the record. It’s an anthem that bursts in with rebellious energy. There is a meticulous balance of raw energy and carefully crafted hooks. It checks all the boxes of a hit song. I can see why this is the song with the most listens on the EP, probably because most people who listen to it put it on repeat, as I have.
Another highlight is “Race with no end”. Here, Sarina shifts towards a more mellow, hopeful vibe. It really reminded me of Avril Lavigne’s songs (the more recent releases, not the sk8ter boi era). Sarina described it as fighting on even when it feels pointless, and you can really feel that determination in both the lyrics and the energy of the music.
The single “If you need me to be the villain (Then maybe I am)” is easily one of the highlights here. The melody is mind-blowing, to be honest, and I really personally enjoyed the guitar tone that drives the chorus. The drum sound on this song specifically is incredible; you can feel every hit, and it makes the intended angst of the song hit much harder.
The final track, “Fools Gold,” brings the EP to its dramatic conclusion. “Fools Gold” is drenched in gothic theatricality with symphonic rock elements. Sarina’s vocals really shine in this one with a breathtaking performance that oozes drama. It’s about (as Sarina puts it) “The smoke and mirrors of glamour and the rot that hides beneath” It is after all the fool’s gold. It’s not real, it’s a facade. A shiny layer that covers a world of pain and the lies we tell ourselves.
“The Fool” represents a successful artistic risk for Sarina. It’s rawer and more aggressive than her previous work, but also more personal and emotionally complex. She moves from fury to vulnerability to theatrical grandeur, but it all feels like different facets of the same complex identity. The artist’s journey is about exploring the self, and Sarina absolutely understands that, and I am glad I am along for the ride as a listener.
