Jemma Nicole is potential new heroine of Gothic Americana scene. She was born in Perth, Australia and she currently resides in Melbourne, which makes her selection of genre even more interesting. This year, she released her debut album titled My Darkest Hour.
Jemma describes her style as country-noir or folk-noir. In other words, what we recognize as Gothic Americana, this girl calls folk-noir. Another trivia that makes this girl particularly intriguing is how her record label describes her – Nick Cave and Hope Sandoval in a double match with Glenn Danzing and King Dude, while Johnny Cash is sitting at the table.
Gothic Americana is a subgenre most musicians tend to avoid because the idea eludes labels and it is known for its proclivity to reinterpret genres. Most noir singers do not feel the need to classify themselves. When a young artisan decides to determine her style as country-noir, it is an act of grit. It is also a very clever move because she wants to showcase her music as disparage to what is dominant.
On My Darkest Hour, Jemma reveals her persona to the point of utmost vulnerability. She gives in, but she still stays true to herself and avoids making confessions. Her vocal is on the track of Lera Lynn, Gillian Welch and Neko Case. Albeit it is mostly in one tone, it never gets boring because the story of each song is separate from the other. Interpretation succumbs to the story, making the whole record profusely dynamic. It is a great skill to inject something fresh into every tune, and to transform your vocal accordingly. Dance With The Devil is a number that demonstrates that skill. Throughout the song, Jemma’s ability to display nuanced emotions make the track appear like several tracks in one.
Perfume, Cigarettes, and Wine saves noir moment for the lyric, while the melody is pure country. Too Late To Save My Soul carries the motif of the album. Jemma is obsessed with topics such as loneliness, religion, addiction, alcohol, depression, deviations and alienation.
At the very end of the album, Jemma gives as a real treat – a cover of Dolly Parton’s Jolene.
To conclude – Jemma has everything that music artist needs to have: style, lyrics, charisma, seductive vocal. It is just a matter of time before she becomes a superstar.
