Jacob Rountree – Vertigo (2022)
Hailing from the USA (Washington to be exact), singer-songwriter Jacob Rountree shares a unique, eclectic sound with listeners. Currently backed by multi-instrumentalists Cole Thorne and Alex Speed, there is a diverse and intricate element to Rountree’s already obscure sound. While Rountree has been in the music world for several years, it was only in 2020 that the lads decided to break out with original material. Come with us as we delve into one of his latest singles ‘Vertigo’.
Following his obscure track ‘Porcelain’, Rountree adopts a less blues-like and more synthpop/post-punk sound in ‘Vertigo’. Retaining a degree of obscurity and authenticity, this natural talent highlights his innovativeness as an artist. No comparison can be made regarding ‘Vertigo’, but if forced to I would say it lies in the realm of Depeche Mode and Radiohead. Smooth, mellow and laidback, the underlying melody is flowing but it also includes an uncomfortable sense of dread in its melancholia.
Sent adrift on a glistening sonic river, Rountree guides through a hazy ambience with ‘Vertigo’. Charming on his own, the addition of Cole Thorne’s vocal contribution adds a degree of underlying haunting – does that make sense? In other words, the backing tones seem to send an extra chill down your spine along with Rountree’s already chilling voice. Warmth and richness ooze from the vocal execution, so while you’re feeling chills you are also wrapped in a gossamer blanket of enchanting wistfulness.
What I find intriguing is how the melodic arrangement filters out into a smooth guitar solo. It seems to assimilate everything we have just heard and bring it all together in a simplistic manner. Eerie but awesome.
For more from Jacob Rountree, check out the official website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.
