Jay Wood is a Perth, Australia-based singer songwriter who, at the age of 24, had her life permanently changed by an accident caused by a drunk driver. It took her seven years to recover from catastrophic traumatic brain injury and relearn how to walk and play music. From the ashes of tragedy comes her new EP Respire.

By Graeme Smith

In Respire, Jay explores themes of human resilience and choice, and meditates on the joys of life. The journey opens with the delicate and bright oh well. Using some beautiful imagery, Jay finds the lighter side of life with it. There’s a focus on love and relationships in her relatable lyrics. It’s a wonderful start.

Initial Pulse slows things down a little and introduces some visceral storytelling. Jay truly has a way with words and its her lyrics that make her music stand out. James Dean is a heart-rendering track that starts stripped-back before gradually building to a triumphant crescendo. It’s a highlight.

Hidden Face is a brooding piece, infused with strings and driven by acoustic guitar. Its atmosphere is rendered vividly by the track’s lyrics. Future Dreaming is dreamily upbeat, and Jay’s vocals are particularly expressive in it. The EP then closes with an extended version of Initial Pulse. Opening gently it grows ethereally before reaching a long, lingering goodbye. It’s the perfect finish.

Jay Wood has an incredible story and kudos to her for overcoming such a devastating setback in life. This EP is a triumph. The song writing is second to none and there is a cohesive yet interestingly varied style to the instrumentals which straddles the line between folk and pop. We’re so lucky to not have lost Jay at such a young age. I feel there is much more to come from her.

Respire was produced by Norman Solander Studios. You can check out the EP below.