Jay-Jay Johanson – Moonshine EP
Swedish producer, songwriter and avant-garde extraordinaire Jay-Jay Johanson returns with his ‘Moonshine’ EP, out April 13th on Kwaidan Records. The 4-track EP consists of two original new songs and two new covers, ‘Moonshine’ demonstrates more of Johanson’s masterful musicianship and soulful, melancholic vocals and showcases his rich artistic universe with the healthy dose of experimentation that makes his work both consistent and daring, utterly modern and always surprising.
The EP opens with the lead single of the same name. ‘Moonshine’, out individually on March 23rd, is a tragic love letter told against a dark, cinematic backdrop, with a pulsating and eerie beat and heavy electronics. Johanson composed the track with the soundtracks of both Ennio Morricone and John Barry in mind, and explains “The song tells a story of being in love with someone that might not be the best one for you, but sometimes you just can’t resist the choice of your heart.”
‘Capricorn’ provides a slower, more sombre beat reminiscent of Portishead, Barry Adamson and Son Lux. Here, Johanson’s beautifully romantic voice takes centre stage and his keen ear for retrocentric pop hooks is obvious. It’s plain with tracks such as these why Robin Guthrie of Cocteau Twins has been, and continues to be, such a close collaborator.
Next we’re taken through a carefully executed version of Brian Eno’s ‘By This River’, stripped back with piano lead and close vocal harmonies that provide an almost untampered interpretation, one that’s dreamier, more soulful, but an obvious homage. A feeling that’s echoed in the EPs closing number, a cover of ‘Laura’ by Bat For Lashes. With trip-hop beats and a low-fi delivery, Johanson offers his own story amongst these heartfelt lyrics. A feeling that’s mirrored by the deep heartbeat that ends this beautifully composed 4 track EP.
The artwork itself, a crossword offered out to fans over social media to complete, is a testament to Johanson’s poetic mind and his fondness for the written word, whilst keeping fans involved in a more modern fashion.
With further touring plans, and an album release planned later in the year, ‘Moonshine’ is a perfect taster that leaves you wanting more, and a gateway drug into the rich and diverse world of Jay-Jay Johanson.
