EP Review: Salvation Jayne - 'Salvation Jayne EP'

Salvation Jayne have recently released their new self-titled EP, which is as raucous and experimental, as fans of the band might expect. Whilst there may still be some people unfamiliar with Salvation Jayne, they have slowly been making waves since they formed in 2013 and I think that this EP may catapult them to being ones to watch for 2019.

‘Salvation Jayne’ opens up with the heavy-hitting, melodic single ‘Cortez’. If you’re a fan of Clutch’s huge anthemic riffs, then this will be right up your street. Combining Holly Kinnear’s penchant for a big guitar riff and Chess Smith’s powerful vocals makes Cortez feel like a song performed by veterans of the industry; it has all the familiar qualities that you would expect from a rock anthem and it is performed in what seems like complete ease. ‘Juno’ comes in two forms; one, the typical Salvation Jayne sound that is slightly funky and guitar-laden, whilst the other is melodic and almost like an R&B stripped back version, which shows the versatility of the band and in my opinion, is much better. Black Heart’ reminds me of an 80’s glam rock power ballad, that is drenched in nu-wave, synth sound. “I’m sleeping with a black heart tonight; reckless and radiant and swimming in wine” – this isn’t the first mention of the grape juice, on the EP – Salvation Jayne seem to have a soft spot for the stuff!

For a band that have only been around for five years, there is an intoxicating old school sound that they have brought to the surface. In an industry that can occasionally be oversaturated with similar sounds, this is most welcome. ‘Tongue Tied’ has moody, minor harmonies laced through it and is ever so slightly reminiscent of early 2000’s Evanescence whereas ‘The Art of Falling’ is slower in place and seems to be about battling the demons in your head. The syncopation of drums and Tor Charlesworth’s delicate precision with the cymbals carries the song in subtle strength, whilst Dan Lucas’ moody bass melody sets an atmosphere that is fitting for the lyrics; “deep blue suicide, I keep on running from the blue into red”. The Art of Falling has an outro that would present one of those golden live moments where all the lights come up as the musicians are going full throttle, pouring their souls into their instruments.

Words by Tyler Damara Kelly

Salvation Jayne’s sent titled EP is out now.