Unveiling the Depths: Jabu’s A Soft & Gatherable Star

An exploration of Jabu’s latest album journey.

Bristol’s experimental trio Jabu is back with a resounding new release titled A Soft & Gatherable Star, set to hit the shelves on November 8. The band, tapping into their rich history of crafting ethereal soundscapes, has recently curated a noteworthy two-day event in Bristol and has London shows lined up with renowned artists like Dawuna and A.R. Kane. With such momentum, it’s no wonder they are ready to share their latest journey through music.

Track-by-Track Analysis

Oceanside Spider House

Jas recounts the genesis of this haunting track, reflecting on the end-of-the-world themes inspired by the video game Zelda: Majora’s Mask. Through the lens of childhood memories, this song evokes images of a moon threateningly hanging above, while intimate human connections unfold in an environment ripe for despair. It’s a profound commentary that resonates deeply, particularly in today’s tumultuous landscape.

Gently Fade

For Jas and Al, the writing process has led to a serene yet dynamic interplay of their vocal styles. The inspiration for this track emerged during a bleak winter day, perfectly encapsulating the cocooning effect of music amidst the storm outside. Sharing a warm drink of whisky, the duo crafted a sound that wraps its listeners in nostalgia and warmth.

Artistic expression in every note.

Košice Flower

This track chronicles a quirky vacation in Slovakia in 2016, with Amos and Jas turning a marital spat into a memorable melody. What was once a moment of tension transformed into a love song, showcasing Jabu’s ability to find beauty in the mundane. The historical backdrop of old Soviet-era buildings juxtaposed with personal anecdotes provides listeners with a tender see-saw of emotions.

Sea Mills

Jas’s reflections on her teenage years in Sea Mills reveal complex emotions of vulnerability and the challenges of adolescent life. The lyrical imagery of dark woods and solitude translates into a sound that’s both eerie and comforting, showcasing her growth as a songwriter and performer. The contributions from their collaborators add multilayered textures, emphasizing the depth of the song.

All Night

Remembering laying on the floor of Amos’s mother’s study, the trio processed their creative blocks and discovered an emotional outpouring that speaks to the universal experience of sleepless nights. The exploration of intimacy through sound and lyric aptures that yearning to connect, reflecting on the depths of love and companionship.

Too Careful

Al shares his thoughts on this track’s creation, driven by the haunting drum samples and charismatic guitar riffs. Through reflecting on personal struggles, the lyrics explore the strength needed to reach through daily challenges.

If I Asked You, You’d Tell Me

This is where the magic of collaboration truly shines, as Amos dives into late-night creative sessions filled with experimental ideas. Combining ethereal echoes and orchestral sounds from a cellist, the creation resonates with themes of uncertainty and nostalgia, intertwining beautifully with the poignant story behind it.

Ashes Over Shute Shelve

A touching tribute, this piece represents Amos’s heartfelt connection to his late father. The poem included within the track stirs a myriad of emotions, allowing listeners to feel the layers of grief and remembrance, aptly titled to reflect the fragility of life.

Temporary

Jas steps forward in this song with a composition reminiscent of her past explorations and the tumultuous family dynamics explored in her lyrics. The influence of cult beliefs gives the track an unexpected yet thought-provoking angle, expressing feelings of deep-seated conflict around the idea of judgement and salvation.

As I listen to Jabu’s latest album, I’m struck by how each song works not just as a standalone piece but as part of a larger narrative that connects through themes of connection, nostalgia, and vulnerability. They invite us to reflect on our own experiences while creating an aural landscape that feels both familiar and foreign.

For those eager to pre-order A Soft & Gatherable Star, you can do so here.

Photo by Chris Hoare