The Kids Are Alright

Saffire! My friend Jeff asked me if I would be interested in recording his daughter's band a while back and I said 'Sure, I'll help you out..." etc. I had no idea I would fall in love with these girls and their music. Saffire is all about the songs. I'm talking three and a half minute pop gems with gleaming vocal harmonies and sunshine abound. Throw in some attitude, classic pop structure, innocence and simplicity, put it in the hands of two 12 year olds and two 14 year olds and there you have it.

The band consists of main songwriter Anika Scilipote (12) who doubles on lead vocals and guitar, her sister Soreya (14) on drums, Charlotte Harrow (14) on vocals, bass and guitar and sister Sonja (12) on vocals and keyboards. BTW - Charlotte is now studying voice at the prestigious Manhattan School of Music. I think back to what I was doing (or not doing) at this age and I say "DAMN! Shoulda, coulda, woulda!!" No, I was probably trying to learn the guitar solo on "Detroit Rock City" and dreaming of becoming a rock star. Well people, these kids are actually out there DOING it :)

When we record the songs I always ask the girls to run through the vocals so I can figure out the logistics of the arrangement, etc..... So Ani, Sonja and Charlotte sit there in front of me and proceed to belt out these incredible, natural harmonies that literally send chills through me. You really can't "teach" people to sing like that, either you have it or you don't. Let me tell you, these girls certainly have it.

Here's "Give Me a Break" as it sits now, un-mastered and on it's way to being a finished mix. Make sure you get to the bridge and a cappella sections!!



If you want to see these guys in action go here or here