Earlier this month, I shared the title track of singer-songwriter Miles Jenson‘s debut EP, Sunshine Goldmine. Now, I run the rule over the whole record.

By Graeme Smith

The EP opens with the soft dreaminess of Country Club. Jazzy overtones sit atop a rumbling undercurrent while Jenson’s soulful vocals grab the ear. They deliver dark and storytelling lyrics that contrasts polish and sheen with something altogether more sordid. It’s a gripping start.

Title track Sunshine Goldmine, which recently featured on these pages, sits at the heart of the EP, providing a fresh and unique highlight. Part blues, part something entirely indescribable, it demands your attention with its off-kilter instrumental, and honest and raw lyrics.

Turn On A Dime closes things in slowed-down and stripped-back, Chet Baker style. There’s an intimate vulnerability to it that makes it a memorable moment, and its lyrics feel deeply relatable.

“This EP is my first true expression—it is me finally honouring myself,” says Jenson, who recorded the EP after walking away from a major-label deal in search of artistic freedom. “There is social commentary in these songs, but there is also a lot of inner dialogue. I speak candidly about my flaws because, when you’re honest, you invite in grace.”

Sunshine Goldmine was produced by Grammy-winner King Garbage (Jon Batiste, The Weeknd, Leon Bridges) who is also working with Jenson on his debut full-length album. The pair have created something very special. You won’t hear much like it.

The EP is out now and you can give it a listen below.