SINGLE REVIEW: Iona Summer – Jack Daniel’s

‘…exploring the female experience in relatable yet wonderfully catchy ways, talking about even her darkest moments with a sense of youthful exuberance and defiance…’

Author’s Note: this track and review deals with themes of sexual assault, so please approach with the caution you require. A brief list of resources, accessible to people of any gender, shall be provided at the bottom of the review – Ryan

Hot off the heels of her folk-pop anthem ‘Mirror Image’, Scotland-via-Liverpool singer songwriter Iona Summer is back with another gorgeously performed track. Not only does ‘Jack Daniel’s’ see her at her most vulnerable, but also perhaps her most empowered.

A power-pop anthem with a country flair, the composition of ‘Jack Daniel’s‘ is a playful affair, with a driving bass line draped with acoustic guitar melodies making for a stripped back but charismatic affair. Moments of fuzzy, grungy electric guitar punctuate the track, embellishing it with the rock chick energy Summer so perfectly encapsulates.

Despite the playful nature of the track’s instrumental, however, Summer’s lyricism offers a far more painful experience, documenting her experience with sexual assault, how it poisons the experiences we share with others, and the self-destructive behaviours that can often follow. Her vocals are buoyant and spirited, but hidden beneath the upbeat melodies is a painful vulnerability that is certain to resonate deeply with those whom have shared her experiences; this is Summer carefully wearing a mask and pretending that the Jack Daniel’s is just for a good night out, and not a way of making oneself forget.

‘Jack Daniel’s‘ continues to demonstrate Summer’s talent at exploring the female experience in relatable yet wonderfully catchy ways, talking about even her darkest moments with a sense of youthful exuberance and defiance. This is a songstress that is determined not to be silenced, and instead use her platform to offer a light to others. She could be a vital voice in the coming years.

For Fans Of: Kate Nash, Elle King, Lola Young, KT Tunstall, Joni Mitchell

Follow the artist on social media below:

Instagram // Spotify

Survivors Network // The Survivors Trust // Rape Crisis // Safe Gigs For Women //