Zoe Jennings - “Cruel World”
Photo by Harvey Pearson
New Zealand-born, London-based singer-songwriter Zoe Jennings (formerly known as ZÖ) has just released the wonderfully heartfelt and folksy sounds of “Cruel World.”
Jennings wastes no time here, revealing her tender vocal at the press of the play button, directly inviting the listener into her introspective realm via this intimate number. “Cruel World” was recorded live with Kevin Andersson in Gothenburg, Sweden, and while it was completely captured in one take, Jennings’ voice is expertly delivered, at times even sounding double-tracked.
Beneath the enchanting vocal melody, an acoustic guitar churns out some heavenly chords, perfectly setting the tone for the lyrics to establish the idea that we are all already the best versions of ourselves. Over the refrain, a ghostly slide guitar has been utilized in order to provide “Cruel World” with some sonic width, though nothing can diminish the intimate nature of the recording.
The arrangement remains sparse for the duration, but there is enough emotion occurring within “Cruel World” that is has no trouble ticking all of our boxes for a beautiful folk song. This is our first time hearing from Zoe Jennings and we truly hope that she continues releasing these stripped-back and raw morsels of sound, as they serve to be the best guides through our constant bouts of soul-searching.