SINGLE REVIEW: Ape Bucket - Made Up My Mind

Ape Bucket’s ‘Made Up My Mind’ is a glowing ode to the magnetic spark of meeting someone for the first time. Lebanese-born, SoCal-based Charbel Saikali (aka Ape Bucket) brings his unique indie sensibilities to the table, crafting a track that radiates vibrant energy and sincerity. With a swirl of psychedelia woven through its indie framework, the song feels both fresh and nostalgic, tapping into a timeless kind of magic.

At its core, ‘Made Up My Mind’ captures the thrill of fleeting eye contact and the inner dialogue that follows—those moments of electrifying possibility where the air feels alive with connection. The laid-back, raw vocals might not be pitch-perfect, but that’s their charm. They beam with authenticity, their imperfections only amplifying the song’s sincerity. The vocal delivery oscillates effortlessly between chilled and impassioned, adding layers of emotional depth.

Musically, this track is uplifting and dynamic. The Latin-tinged guitars lend a sun-drenched quality, while splashy drums and a punky bassline keep the rhythm punchy and infectious. There’s a carefree groove that makes it impossible to sit still, with shades of The Strokes’ offbeat style and Arctic Monkeys’ laddish charm peeking through the mix. Ape Bucket manages to blend garage rock grit with whimsical synths and a touch of psychedelic blues, creating a sonic landscape that feels both expansive and intimate.

As the second single from his ongoing project ‘Scatterbrain,’ Ape Bucket proves his versatility by experimenting with sound while staying true to his emotive roots. There’s a certain raw joy to this track—it feels like a celebration of connection, warmth, and that all-important decision to embrace the moment. Whether you’re drawn in by the bright guitars or the emotional pull of the vocals, ‘Made Up My Mind’ is a track that’ll leave you smiling long after it’s finished.