Fat Dads - 'Jenny'
Fat Dads’ new single ‘Jenny’ is a stonking indie-rock banger - and when we say indie, we mean indie. The band built their success from the ground up, achieving an impressive amount of recognition without the guiding hand of a label, reassuring us that the spirit of rock and roll is alive and well. Ramping up their output this year, “Jenny” comes as the band’s third single of 2023. It’s a ready-made floor filler with a raw yet uplifting sound reminiscent of late 90s/early 2000s indie. Picture the jangly guitars, spanking drums and water-tight production of ASH, The Coral and The Strokes.
A vocal that’s somehow honeyed and raspy all at once urges: “Jenny, come home” in an endlessly catchy hook. You get the sense these guys practice hard but don’t take themselves too seriously in the same vein as RATS and Sports Team. The song follows the eponymous star-in-the-making on her journey from the undefined doldrums to Hollywood, from the perspective of the boyfriend who was left behind. It’s relatable to pretty much anyone who’s been big-timed by a friend or lover, but there’s no bitterness or animosity in this dazzling cut. Perhaps just a little jealousy that she found out who she is - something the lyricist isn’t holding out hope for himself.
Fat Dads gained notoriety last year thanks to online ‘beef’ with The Skinner Brothers and an unlikely allegiance with One Direction’s Louis Tomlinson. Shenanigans and tomfoolery seem to be the name of the game with this band, and we’re here for it. Fat Dad’s has a six-date UK tour lined up over January and February, and they’re supporting The View and Andrew Cushin later in the year.
Close your eyes and drink ‘Jenny’ in as it transports you back to the sawdust laden sticky-floored indie venues of 2005. And if you weren’t there - this is the closest you’ll get. If Jenny exists, she’s probably impressed. The single is out now.
Words by Imogen Sharma
