Jo LaRue – Arizona (Single Review)

Some artists are very strong and distinct with their artistry. That statement itself could be interpreted many ways, with some assuming that the artist’s repertoire has to be harsh or industrial with that sort of branding. However, strength and distinctness in art doesn’t have to only encompass a narrow range of aesthetics- it just has to be potent, authentic, and in-the-moment for one to truly feel the art that is being made. That’s my initial impression of today’s artist, Jo LaRue. As the article goes on, you too shall busk in the warmth of her own art, and fully understand why I have such an impression.

Jo LaRue is an emerging songwriter and pianist from Dublin, whose musical journey started at a young age. Her background consisted of the rich traditions of jazz and funk. Due to these distinct influences, Jo developed a unique and rich vocal style that incorporates influences such as Ella Fitzgerald, Amy Winehouse, Stevie Nicks and Lily Allen. She also has a knack for infusing her music with a blend of jazz, retro-pop and conversational lyrics laced with humour, all of which make up ingredients for an artistry that’s never been seen before.

She is also a graduate of BIMM Dublin, having studied Commercial Modern Music. Jo has honed her ability to perform and blend various genres, busking in his own versatility. She has collaborated with some of Dublin’s finest session musicians, bringing their expertise to her most recent jazz-infused, feel-good-funk and retro pop singles.

Some of her live venue performances include the The Sugar Club, Workman’s Cellar as well as Fibbers, all located within Dublin. These performances have also earned her a reputation for engaging and lively performances. She has also contributed to releases from bands such as the rock group Sheridan and the folk-influenced group Blue Luna.

However, the release that this article centers around, titled ‘Arizona’, will mark her debut as a solo artist, promising a fresh and captivating addition to the music scene. It was written after Jo travelled around the desert and the Grand Canyon. The song is also accompanied with an interactive and kitschy music video.

The song definitely starts off with a bluegrassy feel to it, mixed with the strong syncopation of typical blues songs. It paints the scenery of dreaminess, before transitioning to a jazz percussive beat for Jo to lace her vocals over. The track also has elements of country music, reflecting the various contextual influences of Arizona as a location, and also acts as a testament to her knack for seamlessly mixing genres in her own music.

Jo’s voice distinctively captures all the essence of her influences in one single voice. It is jazzy, but it is also quite bold and exploratory. Her voice does not lack any form of soul or melody- it is the perfect complement to the already bustling instrumental.

The track also acts as a very interesting take on Americana music in general, with slight gospel melodies trickling out at the end of certain measures. It does encapsulate the late 60s and early 70s time period in its genre-preferent slants and musical execution, but the mastering is delicate enough for the track to also seem modern at the same time. At some instances, it even has elements of psychedelic funk.

I think the song actually has a lot of potential to resonate with a lot of people. The way the genres intersect, the intermingling of a strong ethos with a laid-back soundscape and the various quirks within the song will leave any listener with a piece of the pie. It’s not a song that you can ignore, for sure. It has very feminine sensibilities as well, all while not overpowering the track and seamlessly blending with the fever dream of frolicking in Arizona. Dreamy, and wonderful.

Score/Excellent: Jo LaRue will definitely take you on a sonic journey with ‘Arizona’, a beautifully detailed track that plays the experience of being in Arizona or the aesthetic of the West Coast with authenticity and a delicate dreaminess. Her vocals help to structure the otherwise airyness of the track, giving it an excellent balance that pleases the ear.

[We rank singles, EPs, and albums on a scale of Poor, Mediocre, Good, Excellent, and Outstanding]

Follow Jo LaRue on:

Facebook

Instagram