Emerging from the misty, art rock underbelly of Victoria, B.C., Baba Chaka makes a haunting mark with their latest release, “Deactivate”. The five piece alternative rock ensemble, whose name alone nods to mysticism and power (“Baba for the witch. Chaka for the Khan.”), delivers a track that feels like both a shutdown sequence and a spiritual unraveling.
From the opening moments, “Deactivate” plunges listeners into a mechanical dreamscape, echoing with sputtering engines, flickering batteries, and an overwhelming sense of fatigue. The production leans into grunge textures and post rock ambiance, with thick guitar tones and a rhythm section that pulses like a dying power source. It’s not just the machinery that’s breaking down, it’s the human soul behind the circuitry.
The emotional undercurrent of the track is undeniable. Lyrics like “Crying with hope” and “I feel no emotion. At least that’s what I’ve been told.” strike a delicate balance between vulnerability and detachment. The vocals oscillate between flat resignation and quiet desperation, making the song feel like a plea masked in static.
What makes “Deactivate” so compelling is its duality. On one hand, it reads like a cybernetic eulogy, an android’s final breath. On the other, it’s achingly human, reflecting the burnout and numbness many feel in a hyperconnected world. Baba Chaka doesn’t just tell a story, they build a sonic atmosphere thick with decay, confusion, and beauty.
With “Deactivate”, Baba Chaka doesn’t just announce their presence, they invite us into a space where the digital and emotional breakdowns collide. It’s a powerful statement from a band carving out their place in the West Coast’s alt rock landscape, part dream, part nightmare, all heart.
This has been added to our Lit Vibes Spotify Playlist. Discover all the incredible artists featured and give the playlist a follow to stay tuned for more great music!
