Jacob Sartorius returns with “Hit Me Back,” a promo single from his second EP, ‘Left Me Hangin’.’ He’s assisted by blackbear. 

He’s back…Oh dear God help us all! No, that’s not very nice, particularly when talking about a kid who seems genuinely nice.  Jacob Sartorious rocked our world in 2016-17, releasing some incredibly horrid music. First, we had to deal with the “Sweatshirt.” Next, came “Hit or Miss,” which of course was MISS.  Then there was that EP (The Last Text), which is just sickening to even think about. But he’s back with “Hit Me Back,” a promo single for his new EP, Left Me Hangin’.  He does manage to get blackbear on the track.

The pros.  Blackbear produces.  This is notable because blackbear co-wrote “Boyfriend” by Justin Bieber – a big pop hit.  The sound is guitar-driven, backed by a hard-hitting pop beat.  Expectedly, blackbear is a boss and this backdrop is perfect for Jacob.  Vocally, this is definitely an improvement for the teen-pop singer, even if the vocal production/effects play a big role in this.  Also, blackbear guests, though briefly.  This provides a contrast to Jacob Sartorius and naturally, blackbear sounds more seasoned.  He should though – he’s 26 while Sartorius is 14.

The cons.  This is still not top-notch stuff.  “Hit Me Back” is just over two-and-half-minutes, which is on the short side of things.  Yes, cynics will say ‘the less Jacob Sartorious, the better,’ but two-and-half-minutes is still little time to make a notable statement.  Vocally, Sartorius still has maturing to do. Vocal effects give him a lift here, but also, it would be nice to hear him loosen up and give a more authentic performance.  Yeah, he’s 14, but it’s never too early to start really honing into artistry and making a distinct name for yourself.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, like other Jacob Sartorius songs, coming from the perspective as someone more than twice his age, “Hit Me Back” still left me hangin’.  After listening one time, it just doesn’t conjure up any magic.  The most magic came from the signature blackbear runs, and this isn’t his song!  His fans will note his improvement as a musician, but beyond the base, even having blackbear on the track doesn’t make this a gem.

Jacob Sartorious • Left Me Hangin’ (EP) • Release: 10.6.17 

Photo Credit: Jacob Sartorius