Jess Williams was a supporting act for Marissa Nadler on her last year’s European tour. There were only few people inside of United States who have heard about this artist, but with the current album Heart Song, the young musician should be able to gain more attention. The simplicity of her performances are incredibly seductive, so we are obviously dealing with a big talent here.
Jess comes from Austin, and her debut Native State was released in 2014. It was a critical success, so the follow-up was highly anticipated. The girl who writes, sings and plays is always refreshing, especially If she is oriented towards folk and country. Jess Williamson reminds me of Karen Dalton, Joan Baez, Joanna Newsom and Cat Power. Could it be better than this? This does not come as surprise as she was collaborating with Larry Crane on this record, a guy who is known for his association to Cat Power.
Heart Song is an intimate collection, candid and touching, even desperate. Still, it is not doleful and heavy as it might seem from the previous description. Songs are filled with experience of the girl who has an above average perception and ability to express her introspection. Jess sounds raw and sincere on every song, and most of them have confessional tone that serves as a therapy and healing. Lyrics are personal, without big references and quotes. They are pragmatic monologues in which Jess talks about herself and to herself. The introverted quality of her lyrical approach does not exclude The Other, because Jess touches on topics as maturity, identity, relationships and figuring it out in the world.
The opening track Say It symbolically suggests the confessional tone of the whole record. The girl has something to communicate. Guitar is in the main focus, and the vocal is more intense than on any other track. Haunting title track shows how simple and direct Jess’ folk is, but Goth and mysterious at the same time.
See You In A Dream is a rhythm-driven tune and not properly produced, while the last track Devil’s Girl shows us Jess singing about personal stuff in a very vulnerable manner. Maybe I’m just a devil’s girl, she says. Dichotomy of her music might be the most visible her – approachable and closed; simple and hermetic.
Jess Williams is another pro of why it’s good to be a fan of Americana folk.
