Jack Elliot – Far Lies (2024)
Jack Elliot, the singer-songwriter alias of Malmö’s Gabriel Jemsten, steps boldly onto the music scene with Far Lies, a stunning debut album that speaks volumes despite its understated tones. At just 22 years old, Jemsten delivers a collection of ten quietly moving tracks that feel both intimate and universal, channelling the raw sincerity of his inspirations – Nick Drake, Elliott Smith, and Joni Mitchell – while carving out his unique voice.
From the very first note, Far Lies immerses the listener in its anachronistic charm. Jemsten’s silky smooth vocals and intricately fingerpicked guitar work evoke an immediacy that feels as if he’s performing just for you, a hallmark of his intention to capture authenticity. The album is a journey – melancholy yet hopeful, dark yet luminous. It draws us into the depths of depression only to guide us, gently, toward a brighter horizon.
The singles ‘Heavenly (Innocent Day)’ and ‘Can You Hear The Music?’ offer the breezy liberation of spring, showcasing Jemsten’s ability to pair evocative lyrics with catchy, melodic hooks. Yet the album as a whole embraces a more nuanced spectrum of emotions.
Producer Joakim Lindberg deserves a nod for his subtle touch in the studio. Together, he and Jemsten have cultivated an album that feels organic, allowing the songs to breathe naturally. The minimalist production complements Jemsten’s intricate guitar lines and soulful vocals, avoiding over-embellishment and instead letting the raw artistry shine.
What sets Far Lies apart is the maturity and depth Jemsten demonstrates. His understanding of melody and mood transcends his age, inviting comparisons to the greats of the 60s-70s singer-songwriter movement while remaining firmly contemporary. Despite the big shoes he’s stepping into, Jack Elliot avoids imitation, bringing a personal warmth and charm that keeps the album fresh and uniquely his own.
Far Lies is a poignant, reflective debut that establishes Jack Elliot as an artist to watch. With his thoughtful songwriting, masterful guitar playing, and evocative voice, Jemsten proves that quiet is indeed the new loud. This is an album that doesn’t just ask to be listened to – it asks to be felt.
Find out more about Jack Elliot on his Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
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