SINGLE REVIEW: Jools – 97%

’…abrasive and noisy punk arrangements that sit beneath the torrent of visceral lyrics only adds to the frustrated and bitter overtones of the whole affair…’

Author’s Note: Some readers may find the topic of this track upsetting, especially for those who have experienced sexual harassment and/or assault. UK support organisations shall be linked at the bottom of this page, although this list will be by no means exhaustive – Ryan

In an age of streaming, algorithms, and instant gratification, not releasing a song for over three years would be terrible for many bigger outfits, and a death sentence for many smaller outfits. However, Jools are a band that is anything but ordinary.

Backed by a dedicated cult following, this unconventional post-punk tinged six piece have grown a reputation for being not only an exciting band to listen to, but a force of nature to watch. People have been eager, but patient, to hear more from them. Now, with a signing to Hassle Records and a brand new single, it feels like things might finally explode.

’97%’ is not only a damn good song, but an important one at that. The title is derived from a study that stated 97% of women in the UK between ages of 18-24 have been sexually harassed, and the lyrics are twofold; anger that this statistic is anything above 0% in the first place, and embarrassment that even well intentioned men often may do little to actually begin to solve the problem.

Even the central hook, catchy as it is, is disconcerting and abrupt, ‘What was she wearing/Looks don’t kill’ chanted against a thumping, scrappy punk background that surges forwards with an anxious aggression. Further into the track, the lead vocal duties switch to Kate Price, who delivers a particularly harrowing stanza that takes clear inspiration from the multitude of killings of young women that have appeared at the forefront of British media over recent years: ‘I witnessed her sick to the stomach that a man could pluck a woman from where she stood/With the force to unearth her roots/Now her flowers only bloom in the heart of the common’.

The abrasive and noisy punk arrangements that sit beneath the torrent of visceral lyrics only adds to the frustrated and bitter overtones of the whole affair; certainly, the statements made are important and impactful enough by themselves, but the musicianship manages to ensure that this is not only maximised, but able to be brought to life in an incendiary manner in a live capacity, where such a message still unfortunately needs to be delivered.

Jools are nothing if not a bold outfit. ‘97%’ is a powerful song, and an impressive statement to make for band that has just signed up to a major UK label; their teeth have not been blunted by red tape. Keep a very close eye on this band; I suspect you’ll be seeing their name in many, many places soon.

For Fans Of: IDLES, Ditz, Gen and the Degenerates, Panic Shack, Black Midi

Featured photo credit belongs to @matttookthese.

Physical copies of the single are available to purchase here.

Follow the band on social media below:

Instagram // Spotify // Twitter

Sexual crime survivor support links:

The Survivors Trust // RASA Merseyside // Local Support Centre Search (NHS) // Safe Gigs For Women