For someone who started her career half a world away in Australia, after being born in New Zealand, Jackie Bristow sounds like someone who’s always lived in Austin when she sings. Bristow’s third album (and first since moving her career to the U.S.) Freedom ingratiates itself immediately with Bristow’s slinking, sexy voice and her deftly blended rock-country-folk songwriting. She can do Texas rock as well as the good ol’ local boys.
Freedom‘s first two songs are immediate in their offerings. The sultry opening title track is an apropos starting point as it details Bristow’s narrator declaring her independence from a no-good beau. “Holy Mess” comes from a totally different direction. It’s subject matter – a familial tale of modern-day hardship – is comparable to Bruce Springsteen in its concern for the working class. Musically, the swagger has been replaced by weariness and uncertainty.
“Pray for the Love” deepens the gospel influence heard on the title track. Its mix of organ and choir is similar in effect to Diane Birch or Tift Merritt’s work. “Hightail it Outta Here” should be an upcoming single. Its swinging lead guitar and Bristow’s escalating vocal performance gives real legs to the song’s tale of suburban malaise and dissatisfaction.
Although “Freedom,” “Hightail it Outta Here” and “Broken Girl” are listed as the “emphasis tracks” in the record’s pr release, they aren’t the clear standouts. “Broken Girl” earns its place as the second-to-last track, though, and is genuinely heartbreaking and feels like it comes from a very personal place. “River” is just as devastating, though. The love song feels like a bruising seduction.
“Warning Signs” is my personal pick for song of the album, though. A melancholy pop masterpiece, it represents the best Bristow is capable of as a songwriter. Her voice shows range on the track; she’s alternately coquettish, enamored, hurt and aloof throughout the record, and on this track she hits a beautifully pensive tone.
Final track “Aotearoa” gets points for the natural inclusion of both a Maori chant and its trip-you-up title in Bristow’s country-rock style. Freedom is an easy-to-love release that gets better on successive listens, and Bristow’s already-impressive catalog of material has bulked up. I think Jackie will fit in just great here.
Final Grade: ****1/2 (out of five)
your good
I agree entirely with the reviewer. It is certainly 9/10. Well done Jackie. I play this album in my car all the time while I’m buzzing round Sydney and all age groups, from the preschoolers, teenagers to the oldies love it. Great beat and you can follow and relate to the lyrics. When you hear it you feel you already know it as it’s so geared for the catchy commercial market. Good luck Jackie, you’ve certainly done your apprenticeship, and will knock ‘em out in the US of A. hae fun don’t forget your roots.
Di S.
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