Premiere: “Suddenly Blind” by The Tapples

Much like an unexpected October snowfall, the Tapples pack a glorious, unforeseen punch in their newest summer single, “Suddenly Blind.” While the six Needham musicians’ ages range from 12-16, the impressive feat comes not just from their youth, but from their raw, pure, unadulterated talent and dedication. Lush with vocal harmonies, satisfying guitar solos, catchy bass riffs, and nostalgic chord progressions, “Suddenly Blind” paints a picture of the perfect summer mindset: of an eager, unharnessed naivety and thirst for adventure. 

The group—composed of lead singer Sam Doff (14), lead guitarist Riley Zakarian (15), guitarist Avery Zakarian (12), drummer Liam King (14), and bassists Daniel King (16) and Arie Shalita (15)—explained the inspiration for this single as I sat down with them on a Tuesday evening via Zoom. Formed first from a catchy bass riff, Doff added Weezer-like vocals to mimic the ebb and flow of the bass line. The lyrics, inspired by a forest path riddled with an unforeseen snowfall, describe the peculiarity found in unexpected experiences: “Our neighbor had Halloween decorations that were covered in snow,” Riley Zakarian shared, “it was so weird for Massachusetts.” 

Full of momentum and a catchy groove, the cymbal-heavy single echoes with bright guitar tones corresponding to the feelings of growing up. Lyrics like “the seasons change / too fast for me” remind us all that there’s no stopping time; that when “reflections shine / into my eyes” we’re simply, “suddenly blind.” 

Young as they are, their professionalism and talent shone through as the six-piece indie rock band and I chatted. Banter, innocence, naivety, unforeseen anticipation: “Suddenly Blind” incorporates everything that this band is about. Perhaps it’s the infectious youth of the band (showing up promptly for interviews and laughing over inside jokes) that’s the key to their success, or maybe it’s their fledgling friendships, or their deep desire to please. Whatever it is, it’s clear that the Tapples have harnessed a passion and drive at a young age that most musicians miss throughout their entire careers.