ALBUM REVIEW: Shepherd Head – Young Jesus
YOUNG JESUS have put out their sixth studio album, Shepherd Head. It’s a record that reflects some of the main things important to frontman, and now the only original member, John Rossiter: an embrace of change and seeking out new sounds. The record predominantly focuses on themes of love, loss, and God and as a result we’re left with something that feels intensely trance-inducing.
As we open with Rose Eater, one can only describe it as haunting; the music can take you on a little bit of a spiritual journey as it feels otherworldly. And then the big vocals hit in a way that you don’t expect but it’s beautiful – it’s lovely to listen to. If you were to compare the vocals to someone it would be HOZIER – the type of vocals that are just hypnotising to the point that you’ll find yourself unintentionally swaying along.
That’s the thing with the album, it’s mystifying and leaves you in a trance where you ponder on your life and existence. It’s like a journey you see in a gritty coming-of-age movie where you watch the main character figure out their lives and motives in a way that is all too real and heart wrenching. Ocean opens with the sounds of pouring rain before shifting to guitar and bass to create a moody vibe, beautifully complimented by guest vocalist TOMBERLIN. Johno uses sound effects that are like a washing machine in the background as we sit at home with our thoughts, and Gold Line Awe uses mystical synths and spoken word comparing our existence to that of the ocean waves.
But it’s not all gloom either; the title track shifts to a more upbeat vibe with opening sounds that remind one of a fairground. It’s promising and uplifting… but then the flute comes in. Perhaps the weakest point of the album is when a shrill flute is used out of nowhere that doesn’t fit with the song whatsoever. Hey, we’re all for experimentation and trying out new things, but this didn’t work. At all. In fact, it’s rather painful and we want to shout “Hey, you’re upsetting the dog!” when a dog’s bark is also thrown in, probably suffering the same as us.
Yet, we would still wholeheartedly recommend this album. Maybe skip the title track but Shepherd Head is a haunting record that takes you on a whole otherworldly experience. It leaves you at peace, it makes you ponder, and while at times a little strange it’s still an experience worth having. It’s an album that you should listen to at least once.
Rating: 7/10
Shepherd Head is out now via Saddle Creek.
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