V11 x BIRD presents: Joel Sarakula

Sultry soft-rock, sunny soul, and a generous wink; Joel Sarakula comes to V11 on November 22nd with his brand new album Soft Focus.

Born in Sydney, based in the United Kingdom, and with an international mindset, Sarakula knows like no other how to create soulful pop that takes you back to the ’70s, yet firmly rooted in the present. His new record Soft Focus is exactly that: warm, layered, and nostalgic, like a Polaroid with a soft haze. Think of a mix of Ned Doheny, Boz Scaggs, Todd Rundgren, and Michael Franks, with a contemporary twist à la Young Gun Silver Fox, Benny Sings, and Drugdealer.

On Soft Focus, Sarakula delivers a colorful mix of soft-rock, funk, and indie pop, spread over twelve compact yet atmospheric tracks. From the soulful single Back For Your Love and the summery King of Spain to the lightly psychedelic Bird of Paradise and Microdosing: this is an album that sweeps you away, warms you, and surprises you.

Live, Joel is at least as captivating. With his vintage glasses, soft voice, and tongue-in-cheek charisma, he has previously graced stages at Glastonbury, SXSW, and Primavera Sound. Expect a show full of charm, retro sounds, and fresh energy, an evening where you are momentarily transported to a parallel ’70s world.