Jesse Thomas does not fit into today's pop music scene and that is a shame. Her brand of singer/songwriter tunes deserves a spotlight that lesser talented acts receive. Jesse's voice has a Stevie Knicks quality with sharp lyrics to boot. Her sophomore album Burn the Boats is a triumph in the smaller moments.
She fills her album with introspection on relationships like on the heartbreaking "Beverly," where she sings about a break-up that should happen but can't quite pull the trigger. (I can't do this again turning lovers into friends I should know so much better by now)
The bouncy piano-driven "Leather Jacket" finds Jesse fending off a guy that is trying way too hard to impress, but she's smitten anyway singing, "I should have seen it coming like a freight train running down the tracks like a bullet screaming out like a warning." On the chugging "Stunner" which seems like a response to the guy in the aforementioned song, Jesse wraps tons of imagery in a blues soaked stomp.
Jesse's voice is the star here with a quality that immediately pulls the listener in and demands that we hang on to every word. A talented artist that is definitely worthy of your attention.
Jesse Thomas- Facebook
Stunner-
5 months. That's how long it's been since I have been excited enough about a new band to blog about. (Digging For Days doesn't post, just to post) Animal Years kind of came out of clear blue sky for me. A perfect blend of indie rock and Americana blues, this Brooklyn based band hits all the right notes for those looking for an up and coming band. "Let Go of Your Head" is a pounding track with a blistering opening line, "I wish a woman would say what she feels instead of me wondering if this thing is real." (Hits a little too close for me) And it is the songwriting that separates Animal Years from the others. "Heart on Heart" beautifully sums up falling in love, "You should hear the sound of your heart on my heart."
Lead singer Mike McFadden's emotional, searing vocals are allowed to soar and will continually bring the listener back for seconds. On closing track "Walking Slow," the band let's their rockabilly flag fly with banjo front and center. Animal Years have something for everyone- amazing vocals, catchy melodies, meaningful lyrics. One thing is certain this band will not remain under the radar very long.
Animal Years- Facebook
Let Go of Your Head-
