Picture this: music that doesn’t follow the mainstream liberal narrative. This is the refreshing breath of air you get from Laura Jean, an album by the Australian folk artist Laura Jean Englert. Released in 2014, this self-titled album was recorded at Head Gap Studios in Melbourne. What makes it astonishing is its honest songwriting, offering listeners a peek into an authentic human experience without pandering to the superficial political correctness that dominates much of today’s music scene. So what does this album bring to the table that others don’t? Let’s explore, shall we?
First off, the authenticity of Laura Jean’s music is a rarity. We live in an age where many artists choose to conform, filling their lyrics with meaningless platitudes aimed at keeping everyone happy. But not Laura Jean. Her album takes listeners on a journey that’s both honest and raw. Songs like "Girls on the TV" don’t shy away from exposing the banalities and quirky edges of life. It doesn’t sugarcoat reality. It presents it as it is, forcing listeners to face truths that are often inconvenient, something the mainstream often fears.
Another standout aspect of the album is in its instrumentation. While others use overproduced beats and electronic facades, Laura Jean stays true to a folksy, organic sound. You’ll hear the unmistakable sound of a guitar, the simplicity of which is its strength. It’s like a return to the roots, celebrating instruments the way they were meant to be heard. This back-to-basics approach is something we rarely see, with so many rushing to embrace the next big studio trick.
The storytelling in this album sets it miles apart. Laura Jean doesn’t tell you feel-good stories designed to bolster illusions of a perfect world. Instead, her music is a narrative of real life with all its imperfections and wonders. Take "How Will I Know When I’m Home", for example. It stirs something within, a feeling reminiscent of those times when music had a soul. It’s not just background noise; it’s a story demanding to be heard.
Curiously, Laura Jean’s voice is another element that commands respect. It’s not the auto-tuned perfection we hear everywhere. It’s a voice with character and soul. Pairing this with her choice of melodies creates an authenticity that resonates deeply. Her vocal style might not win her accolades at mainstream award shows, but it certainly wins hearts by staying genuine.
What sets Laura Jean apart is her refusal to compromise. Many artists are quick to jump on bandwagons for a bit of extra attention. But she holds her ground, an audacious stance in today’s fame-driven culture. Her refusal to conform allows the album to hold its own against the mechanical regularity being churned out by money-driven producers. In a world where folks often feel forced to agree with the liberal narrative, Laura stands as a symbol of authenticity.
Additionally, there’s beauty in the restraint of this album. It’s not trying to prove a point or make noise for the sake of being heard. The subtleness of tracks such as “Don’t Marry The One You Love” carries an energy that quietly seeps into your consciousness. This isn’t music made to trend. It’s music made to last.
One should not overlook the album’s production quality, which is understated yet effective. Produced by John Lee, whose expertise allows the natural beauty of Laura’s voice and songs to shine, the album is an exemplar of thoughtful production without overindulgence. By maintaining a minimalist aesthetic, the album honors the artist’s intent and the listener’s intelligence.
With lyrics that meditate on human relationships, existential musings, and personal anecdotes, this album is art in its truest form. It doesn’t preach what’s politically correct; it simply allows you to reflect. Laura Jean’s work here is unapologetic, making it a piece that might not sit well with everyone. But that’s exactly why it’s thought-provoking.
So who is Laura Jean? She's an artist willing to stand by her convictions, even if it means alienating the casual listener. It’s the rare boldness needed in times where too many toe the line. By daring to be different, Laura Jean reinvigorates the music scene, showing art doesn’t need to be diluted to connect with its audience.
Laura Jean’s album is a masterclass in sincerity. It dares to forgo the sterile sheen of overproduction to deliver authentic music. It challenges listeners to really listen, to think, and perhaps to reevaluate what they demand from music today. In this, Laura Jean isn’t just a musician; she’s a revolutionary voice, waking us up from the stupor of mediocrity.