SINGLE REVIEW: kc jade – Desk Drawer

I’m a lover of the elaborate. Orchestral elements? Yes please. Genre mash-ups? Go on then. Double digit track lengths? I can’t resist.

Yet despite that, even I can admit that there is something that cannot be matched about the energy of just vocals and guitar. The vulnerability of this set up leads to a certain magic that is near impossible to replicate when executed well, such as on this haunting little cut.

Coming from the lead singer of upcoming outfit Ugly Jumper, who have been making quite the name for themselves without having yet a single song released, ‘Desk Drawer’ is a beautifully melancholy number delivered by kc jade, placing her ethereal tones against a backdrop of little more than sparse guitar.

The slightly lo-fi nature of the track is certain to appeal to the bedroom pop fans out there, but don’t go mistaking this for more jangling whimsy that the genre is known for; kc jade has a vocal tone that sits a little somewhere between Kate Bush and, at certain moments, a young Matt Bellamy.

The sparse usage of harmonies throughout, especially during the rousing choruses, truly add to the haunting nature of the track, treading a fine line between restless self-loathing and wistful acceptance of difference. It’s beguiling and enigmatic, yet strangely familiar, capturing that essence of 90’s singer-songwriter but twisting in a manner that is ethereally distinct.

Sometimes, all of the elaborate musical tricks you need is just good songwriting, a simple guitar melody, and some gorgeous vocals, and that’s exactly what kc Jade is able to bring on this captivating performance. An undeniable talent in the making.

Features photo credit belongs to @curtiscarterphotography.

Follow the artist on social media below:

Instagram // Spotify