Jess Abran is an indie and alternative folk artist who has just come to my attention thanks to the release of her deeply personal EP, Diary of a Flame.

By Graeme Smith

To listen to Diary of a Flame is to be given a ticket into the world of Jess Abran. It’s a collection of tracks that reflect on her early life, going from her childhood to her first high school band and early romances. So, of course, it’s a nostalgic collection, but not one that becomes misty-eyed with it. Rather, Jess cuts through the fog with insightful storytelling and honest vulnerability.

Hailing from rural Quebec, Canada, Jess’s talent was quickly recognised by RUSH, Black Sabbath and Courtney Love producer Paul Northfield which gave her the opportunity to tour Europe, play the Berlin Melt Festival, and eventually share stages with Justice, Deerhunter and Caribou.

In this EP, that’s all put aside to explore Jess as the person she was before the fame arrived. For all the youthful reflection though, what shines through is the polished maturity of her sound. Character Cliche is a fiery song about heartbreak that puts the many others out there to shame, and it’s delivered beautifully by Jess’s charismatic vocals. Lonesome Tonight is devastatingly stripped-back, and create a rich ambience with the imagery in its lyrics.

Conversely, That Song, written by guitarist Michael Riechel about twenty years ago, is a raw time capsule, and Make Me Float bristles with the world-weariness that can only come from youth.

I’m just coming to Jess’s music now and I feel very late to the party. Better late than never though, and I’m so glad to have discovered her rich sound and captivating lyrical storytelling. I couldn’t ask for a better introduction to her world than Diary of a Flame, and if you’re new to it like I am, then you’re in for a treat. Long time fans are also going to enjoy this expansion of her discography.

Diary of a Flame is set for release 8 March. You can pre-save it on Spotify here.