On my previous post, I commented about the rapid passage of time, which I was yet again reminded of when Mike Sarasti, one half of Miami-based indie pop-rock duo Raker, reached out to me about their new single “Hologram“. I was shocked to discover that seven and a half years have passed since I last wrote about them on this blog, when I reviewed their debut single “Gospel” (which I liked so much that it ended up on my 100 Best Songs of 2017 list). Now, after a very long hiatus, Raker, which consists of Sarasti on guitar and lead vocals and Andy Rodriguez on bass and backing harmonies, are back making music and I couldn’t be happier. 

I asked Mike for a bit of background about the song, and he graciously provided this detailed and thoughtful response: “A few years ago I was exploring a new city at night (I was visiting Detroit). It was one of those pensive, reflective, wandering walks. Down a seemingly solitary street, I noticed colored light coming from the door of an unmarked, blacked-out storefront. I opened the door and found a hidden tiki-style bar. The moment felt a bit magical, like a “ghost bar” seeming to appear from out of nowhere, existing slightly outside of time and space. This is the backdrop for the track and much of the upcoming album… A wandering spirit, reflecting in familiar spaces, but you cant quite pinpoint why… existing somewhat out of time, popping in and out of memory and the urgency of the present… realism, but magical realism.

‘Hologram’ toggles between the uncertain exploration of that city street, and remembering/returning to the sense of home – ‘safe in your arms’, the sense that even the persistent wanderer has a safe space to return to. Themes that you’ll hear through the collection of songs… time, memory, a sense of agency, hope, anchoring ourselves to the people we love, reflecting on your story, and not letting other people tell it for you. ‘Hologram’ feels like the cinematic introduction to this world which is why we’re releasing it first.“

“Hologram” is a beautiful song, and I really like its breezy melody and colorful arrangement. Highlights for me are the magical synths and fluttering keyboards, accompanied by fuzzy guitars that provide a wonderful textural contrast. Andy’s chugging bassline provides a sturdy rhythmic foundation for the track without overpowering the proceedings. All sorts of charming little musical touches and sounds are sprinkled throughout, adding to the song’s overall enchanting vibe. Mike has a lovely singing voice, and his warm vocals are both pleasing and comforting as he sings of feeling safe in a loved one’s arms.

It’s good to have Raker back, and “Hologram” marks a fine return for this talented duo. I look forward to hearing more music from them soon.

Stare out into nothing.
A hundred and something feelings in tandem collide.
Split into sections.
Speaking in fractions.
I need direction… so I look to the light in your eyes.

Here I am safe in your arms.
And here with you’s the best that I am.
Hold me cause I need to feel
More than a Hologram  

Out here, the city breaks
Another ghost bar in the night
Maybe here I'll find forgiveness, maybe here I’ll find what’s right
Street lights, they pierce right through me
‘cause I’m strange projected light.
Faded stories with no answers
Sad songs to feel alright

Now Here I am safe in your arms.
Here with you is the best that I am.
Hold me cause I need to feel
More than a Hologram

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Find their music on Spotify / Apple Music / Soundcloud / YouTube