Jaylis –
Precious As The Diamonds (Independent)
Jaylis is the name given to Sandra Loerincik Barrat’s
latest musical project, instigated when she picked up a guitar and began to
write songs – around the time her second child was born. Collaborating with
arranger Raphael Noir, Jaylis has fashioned a collection that’s full of joy and
positivity, and wrapped up in memories of childhood. In her own words, she
describes “Precious As The Diamonds” the result of “what life can bring to you
if you smile at it”, and that simple sentiment is reflected throughout the
album’s dozen tracks.
With regard to sound and style, the Lausanne native delivers
her material with an indie-folk whimsy, which is utterly appealing. Names like
Kate Bush, Tori Amos and Norah Jones come to mind, and she’s never scared of
incorporating non-traditional elements – from the country-rock rhythm of the
title track to the spaghetti western atmospherics of “Break”. Both songs
provide standout moments in the collection, though they’re hardly alone.
Opening cut “Flowers” is a perfect scene-setter.
Jaylis’ vocal is sweet and assured, and her musicians (and Noir’s arrangement) build
the song beautifully, filling the gaps, but leaving it uncluttered. “USA” is a
perfect three-minute pop song. It’s catchy and infectious, and deserves huge
radio attention, and the ethereal “Ghost” plays with vivid imagery, and
musically, it resides in the wastelands of a broken heart. It’s moving and
touching, and quite lovely.
Phil S.
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