In the past, Manchester was home to Oasis, The Stone Roses, The Smiths, and Joy Division. Now, most recent to the scene, is Jessica Luise who has come bursting in with her debut EP Going In Blind.
This dream-pop collection is an outstanding debut. A lot of bands are usually still working things out at such an early stage, but Jessica knows precisely what she’s doing.
The opening track ‘a.m.’ is reminiscent of fellow Mancunians Pale Waves, outlining all the feelings of falling in love with someone for just one night or one moment. It is a powerful track and sets the tone for the rest of the EP showing how Jessica can not only sound like a strong presence, whilst remaining vulnerable underneath.
Next up is ‘Stargaze’, a playful track about asking forgiveness by going stargazing. It’s one of the first songs Jessica wrote and it’s clear to see that she’s taken the time to perfect it. A strong vocal performance is showcased on this track.
‘Three Steps Forward’ works as a thank you note to her parents. It makes the listener think of all the advice they may have received from their parents, causing them to consider the things they may or may not have experienced through listening to that advice. Jessica really brings forth raw emotions with this more pop-influenced track with its more upbeat nature.
‘Bedroom’ is the final track and the best on the EP. Jess’s voice and the acoustic guitar meld together, giving a slightly tired and disorientating feeling to it akin to walking home after a party in the early hours of the morning, unsure of the time, but aware that it’s just getting light and reflecting on what a great night was had. It works as a lullaby, especially when she closes the song with a single guitar strum over her smoky vocals leaving you craving more.
Going In Blind is exactly the debut we would hope for from an emerging star.
Words by Louis Suffill
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