Peggy James – Joan of Arc (2021)
Peggy James kept us intrigued with her innovativeness and eclecticism in ‘Head Over Heels’. While that single touched on love, lust, yearning and desire, her latest release ‘Joan of Arc’ hits a different stride. As the name suggests, the single draws on the symbolic French martyr while asking the question: Where are you now?
The elements of country that mix with folk that typifies her music continues to shine with this single. With soft and emotional vocals, her unique perspective and take on the world resonate through the soundscape. As part of a string of releases, this single is a wonderful taster for her full-length LP.
‘Joan of Arc’ jangles into your ears with an interesting Americana-style opening. The guitars strum in the low levels with a slight touch of country to them. Through the melody, James showcases her artful blending of genres and styles. The instrumentation brings a touch of country to folk and rock for an easy listening experience. As you listen to the melody, you can imagine the single calling out over a field as people sit listening to her crooning vocals. There is a really wonderful earthy and folky feel to the music that enhances the vibes of the melody.
It is not only the melody that brings a blend of tones and styles but James’ vocals as well. Her storytelling abilities come through with an almost bardic sense with a touch of Christian music tones. The harmonising that shines on the chorus enhances the folk vibe of the track. The lyrics are a question wrapped in emotional longing and the thrust of standing up for what we believe in. They use vivid imagery to bring the message of the single to life while James’ performance fills you with the heart-wrenching emotions of the track.
Peggy James uses her creative musicality to draw on the symbolism of ‘Joan of Arc’ while driving listeners to stand up for what they believe. Every aspect of the single brings a melding of styles and tones that James is able to execute with precision. The easy listening experience does not detract from the emotional hits she weaves into the imagery of the lyrics.
Find out more about Peggy James on her Facebook and Spotify.
