poppedmusic

Jagaara

Old Blue Last, London, 12th November

Words: Stuart Evans

Jagaara consists of North London sisters Jane (Vocals/Guitar), Cat (Keys/Synth) and Ruth (Guitar) and ably assisted by two gentlemen on drums and bass adding strong rhythms to the trio’s power pop.
I hate the term ‘buzz’ but heck I’m going to use it, there does seem to be a buzz about this band, and rightly so. The room was full of anticipation (and also a couple of dad dancing drunks, not a bad thing, right?) and it must be said the girls looked at complete ease on stage, practise makes perfect and although perfection it was not, the band are on their way to adulation and success.

Standout songs consisted of California (a song about heartbreak, I love a depressing lyric, so this was right up my street) Marble Arch and debut single Faultline (superb harmonies, especially from Ruth) and they even debuted two new song that “even our parents haven’t heard yet”
Lyrically each song sounded like a personal journey, heartbreak and joy in the mix, I would go so far as to say Jane has a ‘70’s soul quality to her vocal and look, and that is a quality to admire.

A great mix of rock, electronica (their drummer reminded me a little of New Order’s Stephen Morris) and folk. The set was punchy and tight, the band looked comfortable on stage and shared a few light hearted moments with members of the audience.

Supported by the superb Fred Page, he with the invisible guitar (initially brought with him just the case), whose lyrics of lovelorn days were beautiful as was his voice.

Without doubt both Jagaara and Page will be ones to watch in 2015. Slow burning success is often the way forward and these are both heading in the right direction.