I’ve been a fan of North-east-based singer songwriter Jodie Nicholson for some time now, having first shared her music in 2020. Now I’m very excited to get a hold of her upcoming second album Safe Hands.
By Graeme Smith
Feature photo by Ellen Dixon
Safe Hands is a collection of tracks all about different aspects of relationships, be they with lovers, friends, family, or oneself. Musically, we see Jodie pushing the boundaries of her sound. While the foundation remains intimate singer-songwriter pop, she branches out at times into prog rock or ’80s electronica.
You Wanted This starts things off with a bittersweet tale of being a musician. It feels almost like a mantra, with Jodie reminding herself that all the hard work is worth it, and she brings the emotion beautifully to life through her ever-charismatic vocals and rich instrumental production. Things come nicely to a head during a driving and life-affirming climax.
Lead single Another Frequency proves to be another highlight. Its sultry and brooding start slowly builds to an understated groove backing some soul-searching lyrics that speak of disconnection. A hooky chorus will find itself at home in your head. As a welcome bonus, the track was co-written and features the vocals of York’s own Sam Griffith (of The Howl & The Hum.)
Elsewhere we are treated to ten more tracks that run the gamut between introspective and melancholic (Bad Dream, Embers, What If I, Starlight), and fiery and defiant (Pity You Had to Leave, Situation, Limit). Love, I’m on Fire provides a heart-breaking moment before things end strongly with Jodie having found her connection in the consolidatory and lingering Flesh & Blood.
When Jodie Nicholson released her first album Golden Hour in 2019, she was about ready to give it all up. We’re so fortunate she didn’t. Safe Hands is a collection that cements her as one of the rising stars of the UK scene. I’m expecting a big reaction when it comes out.
Jodie will be taking her new album on the road in May and June, stopping at Hyde Park Book Club in Leeds on 4 June. You can get tickets for all her dates here.
Safe Hands was self-produced and recorded by Jodie at Blank Studios in Newcastle, and was mixed by Oli Deakin, and mastered by Katie Tavini. It’s set for release 10 May.