JESS BECK steps further into her power as an artist with the reveal of her brand new creative chapter: an exciting solo EP, A LITTLE BROKEN.
With over a decade’s experience creating and performing music around the country as part of the group Pirra, Jess’ venture into solo territory has been born out of a period of personal change and growth.
The release is supported by a Sound NSW Contemporary Music Development Grant, which made the recording of the EP possible.
From the EP, she shares the dynamic first single – ‘Mr. Predictable’. Created with longtime friend and musical partner JAMES McKENDRY, the track is a poignant insight into what the larger EP from Jess is set to sound like.
It also speaks to the strength in artistry shared between Jess and James, a musical partnership that stretches back to their first meeting in 2009.
“James had originally written the song as a tongue-in-cheek dig at himself. I loved the melody and the idea, but I thought it would be much more fun to flip the perspective and tell the story from the woman’s point of view.”
“From there, the song took on a life of its own. It became about the frustration of dealing with someone who always puts themselves first, but in a way that’s funny, honest and a little bit cheeky. It’s the kind of song you can laugh about, sing along to, and maybe even see a bit of yourself in. Judging by how many of my girlfriends immediately related to it, it’s a story that’s more universal than any of us would like to admit. “ JESS BECK
“Mr Predictable’ was a rough demo I had written years ago about being a lousy boyfriend. My girlfriend always wanted to go out and travel and have adventures, but I was pretty content chilling in the hammock at home. Jess heard it and had the idea of flipping it around to be from the girlfriend’s perspective. My favourite part was Jess and I doing the group vocals in a shed. I kept singing the wrong lyrics and I had to keep stepping further away from the microphone and moving Jess in closer because I was singing too loud.” JAMES McKENDRY
As a singer-songwriter, Jess achieved national recognition with her previous band project for music that spoke to a natural storytelling talent. Emotionally driven lyrics were matched by passionate performance; two elements of artistry that Jess has been able to expand beautifully upon with her present solo work.
Her career has enjoyed industry wide support from Triple J and Triple J Unearthed, as well as community radio and DSPs, while as a live performer Jess has shared stages with the likes of Mama Kin Spender, Bec Sandridge and more.
Redefining herself and her practice with her debut solo EP, Jess explores an exciting new sonic direction, playing with a new melodic soundscape that remains grounded in strong lyricism and evocative production.
