Burning Jacobs Ladder - “Deer In The Headlights”
Australia-based Burning Jacobs Ladder has just released the pensive and mystifying experimental indie rock track, “Deer In The Headlights.”
“Deer In The Headlights” is propelled forward by a truly lush drum groove, full of snappy snares and a punchy, slightly barrel-toned drum kick. Over the main sections, the groove shifts its emphasis to a bright ride cymbal, creating an immersive sense of rhythmic fluidity and dynamic energy. When coupled with the hypnotic bass groove, which melodically weaves its way across the composition, it generates a cinematic rhythm reminiscent of Portishead.
Dressing the rhythm section are various meditative layers that remind me of DARKSIDE, crossed with a mid-1990s U2 when they were pushing the boundaries of alt rock with Brian Eno at the helm. Reversed guitar layers lap exquisitely psychedelic-tinged currents of sound, while hazy, ethereal synths build a sense of intensity. The vocals are filled with a melodically palpable, raw sense of angst and vulnerability. The delivery is evocative, in some ways, of Kurt Cobain, but it gloriously lifts over certain sections to haunting falsetto.
Jake T Johnson, the brainchild of Burning Jacobs Ladder explains the meaning behind the track: “Deer In The Headlights encapsulates the weight of adulthood. It delves into the struggle of balancing life's responsibilities with one's passions and the slow erosion of self in the modern world.” Brimmed full of rich moody and reflective vibes, “Deer In The Headlights” is a truly mesmerising auditory journey.