Joh Chase swings the confession of a heart laid bare on “Gone”
L.A.-based queer singer-songwriter Joh Chase faces life’s turbulence with warmth and simplicity on delicate slice of alt-folk, “Gone”
Forged during a writing session at their parents' house in Washington State, "Gone" embodies the very best of Joh Chase's approach to music-making; vulnerable, powerful, and incredibly moving. “Writing that was when I felt like there was new life and new energy in my songwriting," they explain. With a refrain that is sure to become wedged between your ears, "Gone" touches upon the myriad uncertainties of life, from the whimsical dilemmas like house paint disagreements to profound self-realisations that can shake a relationship’s foundation.
"Gone is an anthem of my existence. My life that has become itself at the hands of my past and future - I’m here, but I’ll be gone. It’s a nod to the red solo cups of my life; the chaotic wind tunnel of my 20s and my mental health. A nod to my gender and sexuality. An analogue rock’n'roll gear recipe, coalesced with the magic of post-production mixing and I wail over it to proclaim myself as an artist. I am so proud of this song and also proud of the music video directed by Wren Warner; a perfect expression."
Chase relentlessly expresses a deep appreciation for the impermanence of so many things in our lives. A sonic mission, “Gone” considers how we can’t control everything, and much less that of other people. We have to be comfortable with this idea in order to live a rich existence that benefits from detaching from our past circumstances or grievances and looking to the present for relief.
Picked over like an opened scab, Chase's discography tells a heart-felt journey, and their vocal countenance is imbued with a jazzy steeliness and unassuming power. Though they have always thrived as a solo artist, collaborating with bassist Marc Wolloch and drummer Brendan McCusker adds an impressive gloss to the production of their tracks.
You can hear the inspiration of Chase's musical upbringing on the timeless sensibilities of Elton John and The Cranberries in their modern day indie-folk sound. Speaking of these influences directly, they say “I will always think of my music through that template while trying to find a place for myself in the world and pushing the boundaries." It's a masterful tease for what to expect from their upcoming album, SOLO, set for release on the 26th April.
"Gone" is out now, with SOLO set for release 26 April 2024. Find Joh Chase on Instagram.
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