Retro-tastic Brit rockers Jayler get rootsy on dynamic debut
Jayler can expect certain comparisons with the release of Voices Unheard, their debut album. They’re fronted by a singer, James Bartholomew, who possesses an angelic mane, a predilection for open shirts, and a voice that could melt the ice in a Jack and Coke from 20 paces. But there’s more to these Midlands lads than Led Zeppelin hero worship – not least because their discipledom of Messrs Plant, Page, Jones and Bonham largely manifests itself a little differently.
While some are taken by the cosmic, ‘Golden God’ side of Led Zep, Midlands rockers Jayler appear to be more concerned with following the tendrils of influence back to their rhythm and blues roots. On Down Below and Hate To See It End, they successfully mine their own sweet grooves. They’re big tunes, but earthy and scruffily imperfect, aiming for spit and sawdust clubs rather than shooting for the moon. In an age of homogenisation, they’re wonderfully human.
They’re frequently rollicking too. Riverboat Queen and Love Maker strut as unabashedly as their titles suggest. Over The Mountain is similarly hefty, courtesy of some superb guitar work from the impeccably-named Tyler Arrowsmith. But in this case, the tune is less about loose-hipped swing and more about technical precision and forward momentum, so more akin to Deep Purple, the legendary rockers Jayler will be supporting on tour this autumn.
And what James’ vocals lack in the flawless virtuosity of his forebears, they make up for in power, character and conviction. Voices Unheard is a solid offering from a gang of proving that they do, in fact, make bands like they used to – albeit ones putting their own affectionate stamp on a sound that makes you feel good to be alive.
Verdict: 3/5
For fans of: Greta Van Fleet, The Darkness, Rival Sons
Voices Unheard is out on via Silver Lining Music
