- Bryon Harris
SAMSARA - 'By Your Side'
Review by Daniel Deprè & Staff

“By Your Side” is a fiery jam of a song that packs attitude and is a whole lot of fun. The intro sets up the catchy and rhythmic guitar hook that gives “By Your Side” its unique blueprint. This is the kind of song that is a rebellion, and it feels so good to indulge in its atmosphere. The style of the song brings to mind bands like The Police and older albums from Green Day. SAMSARA brings their unique touch to this genre showcasing melodic tendencies. “By Your Side” is a song that feels cool from start to finish and its infectious rhythms will make your body move. Lyrically, SAMSARA has written lyrics that are truly sentimental and encouraging. However, they are also written in a way that is fun and memorable. Dylan Trif is singing about always being there for people in your life, no matter how difficult the situation. “Baby if the worlds collide, I’ll still be standing by your side.” This is always a beautiful sentiment and often the older we get it seems people like this become harder and harder to find. The lyrics also hint at a bit of past romance, adding a complex and emotional layer to the lyrics. “I tell myself that you are just a friend, and I am just a fool, but then I realize, that I can’t pretend.”
The arrangement of “By Your Side” is simple but extremely effective. The electric guitars are the beating heart of the song, holding down the songs groove that is inventive and full of motion. In the intro one of the guitar players gets to let out a roaring and spicy guitar solo that perfectly sets up “By Your Side’s” exciting energy level. Adding to the excitement is the drums which know when to hold back and when to crackle and pop like fireworks. Dylan Trif’s vocals are so warm and puffy, they comfortably float above the beautiful chaos that the instruments create. “By Your Side” is a strong and uplifting song that is a vibrant and energetic offering.

About Samsara
SAMSARA is comprised of local New Yorkers from Queens and Long Island: Dylan Trif, 16 (Lead Vocals), Charlie LoMonaco, 18 (Guitar/ Background Vocals), John Devito, 19 (Bass), Ben Bustamante, 17 (Drums/ Background Vocals), and Brendan Sandhovel, 17 (Rhythm Guitar). Charlie, Ben and John began playing music together at an early age through a local music school. Years later they connected with Dylan and Brendan and formed what is now SAMSARA. Growing up on all things music, SAMSARA. draws influence from several styles including grunge, funk, metal and alternative. With countless hours of practice and rehearsal, the teens of SAMSARA. write their own music and have received praise from the music community. They impress both the younger and older listener with their sound. SAMSARA's debut single, "NEVERMIND" has gained attention and helped earn the band respect of being taken seriously despite their age. "PARALYZED IN PARADISE", the band's first EP, is out now and available wherever you stream your music. Follow SAMSARA. on their social media for the latest news and events.
For more information on Samsara, please visit their website.
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