“Here, Now” – Jessie Monk

When I heard Jessie Monk’s single “Lonesome Winter Blues” last month, I couldn’t wait to hear more of her material. Now that her EP Here, Now is out in the world, I can finally get my fix. My expectations were high, but this beautiful five-track release has certainly satisfied them.

We open with “Maybe in Another Life,” a song that really showcases how well Jessie can tell a story through song. You can feel the longing as you listen to this beautiful song about two people who never act on their attraction because he’s attached. “Dark Café” paints another vivid picture, this time of the life of a waitress with big dreams. It’s a cliché on paper — we’ve all heard the tale before — but the specific details Jessie includes makes this familiar story feel brand new. Listening to “Lonesome Winter Blues” again, I’m reminded just how much it impressed me the first time around. It really is such a beautiful song, the perfect showcase of just what Jessie is all about.

The EP moves into a quieter, more reflective space with “Turns Out I’m Someone Else.” It’s one of the most subtle tracks on the EP, but tap into the lyrics and you’ll really appreciate its beauty. The title track “Here, Now” is another gentle number. Jessie’s vocals are flawless throughout this EP, but I was particularly struck by her performance on this song. It’s so beautiful, like a siren’s song drawing listeners in and encouraging them to really pay attention to every word of this EP closer. The words, which emphasise the importance of living in the moment, really resonate in these uncertain times.

I made the comparison before, but I couldn’t help thinking about how Jessie Monk might be Australia’s answer to Joni Mitchell. Just like Joni, her voice seems effortless, moving from lush lows to her higher register with seeming ease. No matter where she takes it, it’s always pure and beautiful. Like Joni too, Jessie is such a gifted songwriter. Her lyrics are like poetry, with such perfect details that bring her characters to life for us. If Jessie Monk isn’t already on your radar, make Here, Now the release that changes all that.

Images used with permission from the A&R Department