Sadler Vaden‘s “Chameleon” is a stoic, powerful track, moving remarkably slowly given that it lasts only three minutes and 15 seconds. In its slowness, it captures a lot of the leverage perfected during the latter days of what we traditionally consider classic rock. Elements are added sparingly, piano dropping in carefully a minute in and ripping distorted guitar only entering two-thirds of the way through. This ensures that everything hits with as much force as possible, laying the groundwork for a bona fide slow-jam anthem.
“The ‘Chameleon’ in the song refers to individuals who change their identity to fit current trends instead of staying true to themselves,” says Sadler Vaden. “Chameleon in artistry is tolerable when you know someone is following their gut and not trying to climb the ladder. There is some sadness in the song because you want those types of people to one day find their true identity and take ownership of it so there’s also encouragement in the song for these chameleons to show us who they really are.”
Sadler Vaden releases August 12.