Strawberry Hands Unveils Enigmatic New Single "What Plant Jumps Over Me?" Ahead of Highly Anticipated Album Release
The independent music scene is frequently a crucible for innovation, and Strawberry Hands, under the guidance of Jacob Brunner, exemplifies this spirit. The announcement of A Jazz Blessing For The Animal has generated significant buzz, not least due to the compelling nature of its initial singles. The first, "Dream Of Water," introduced audiences to Brunner’s intricate songwriting and atmospheric production. Now, "What Plant Jumps Over Me?" further expands this sonic universe, offering a track that Brunner himself describes as a "binary-form inquiry into the bipolar spectrum." This candid insight into the song’s thematic core reveals an artist unafraid to explore complex psychological landscapes through his music, grounding abstract concepts in vivid sonic and lyrical imagery. The accompanying music video, directed by Marissa Losoya, promises to offer a visual complement to the song’s intricate emotional narrative.
The album title itself, A Jazz Blessing For The Animal, suggests a fusion of improvisational freedom, spiritual solemnity, and a connection to primal, instinctual existence. Such a title, while intriguing, would fall flat if the music failed to deliver on its promise of both "weirdness and beauty." Fortunately, early indications suggest that Strawberry Hands successfully navigates this ambitious territory, crafting a sound that is as intellectually stimulating as it is emotionally resonant.
The Sonic Tapestry of Jacob Brunner: A Fusion of the Mystical and the Earthly
Weyes Blood’s (Natalie Mering) assessment of Jacob Brunner’s music as existing "somewhere between Terrance McKenna and Gregorian chant. Folk with swagger" provides a critical framework for understanding the unique sonic identity of Strawberry Hands. This statement, coming from an artist celebrated for her own blend of baroque pop, folk, and experimental sensibilities, carries significant weight and immediately signals the sophisticated and unconventional nature of Brunner’s artistry. To fully appreciate this description, it is necessary to unpack each component and consider how these seemingly disparate influences converge within A Jazz Blessing For The Animal.
Echoes of Consciousness: The Terrance McKenna Influence
Terrance McKenna (1946-2000) was an American ethnobotanist, mystic, philosopher, and psychonaut who advocated for the exploration of consciousness through psychedelic substances, particularly psilocybin mushrooms. His lectures and writings often delved into themes of ancient wisdom, ecological awareness, the nature of reality, and the future of human consciousness. McKenna’s "Stoned Ape Theory" posited that the consumption of psychedelic mushrooms played a crucial role in the rapid evolution of human consciousness and culture. His influence suggests that Brunner’s music might explore altered states, non-linear narratives, deep philosophical questions about existence, the interconnectedness of nature, and perhaps even a sense of cosmic wonder or existential questioning. Musically, this could translate into expansive soundscapes, unconventional song structures, lyrical abstraction, or a focus on creating immersive, transportive auditory experiences designed to provoke introspection and expand perception. The "weird" aspect of Brunner’s music likely stems from this embrace of the unconventional and the mind-bending, echoing McKenna’s call to "seek the truth in what you do not know."
Sacred Sounds: The Gregorian Chant Connection
Gregorian chant, dating back to the 9th and 10th centuries, is the central tradition of Western plainchant, a form of monophonic, unaccompanied sacred song of the Roman Catholic Church. Its characteristics include a serene, meditative quality, a focus on single melodic lines, and a profound sense of spiritual devotion. The inclusion of "Gregorian chant" in the description suggests a reverence for ancient forms, a meditative undercurrent, and a spiritual dimension to Brunner’s work. This influence might manifest as sustained vocal harmonies, ethereal textures, a focus on melody over complex rhythm, or a general atmosphere of solemnity and introspection. The "beautiful" aspect of the music could be largely attributed to this connection, evoking a sense of timelessness, purity, and a contemplative peace that contrasts with the more chaotic or intellectually challenging elements. It suggests a grounding in something ancient and sacred, providing an anchor for the more experimental flights of fancy.
Roots and Rhythm: "Folk with Swagger"
The "folk with swagger" element is perhaps the most accessible entry point into Strawberry Hands’ sound, yet it also implies a sophisticated layering. "Folk" traditionally refers to music rooted in communal tradition, often characterized by acoustic instrumentation, storytelling lyrics, and themes of everyday life, nature, or social commentary. However, Brunner’s "folk" is infused with "swagger," implying a confident, perhaps even defiant, modern sensibility. This isn’t traditional folk music in its purest form; rather, it’s folk music that is self-aware, experimental, and unafraid to incorporate contemporary production techniques, unconventional instrumentation, or genre-bending arrangements. The "swagger" could manifest in driving rhythms, unexpected instrumental flourishes, a commanding vocal delivery, or a general sense of artistic self-assurance that pushes the boundaries of what "folk" can be. It suggests a blend of earnestness and coolness, an authentic core presented with a contemporary edge.
The Improvisational Spirit: A "Jazz Blessing"
The album’s title, A Jazz Blessing For The Animal, further underscores the complex interplay of influences. Jazz, at its heart, is an art form defined by improvisation, rhythmic sophistication, and a freedom of expression that allows musicians to transcend established structures. A "jazz blessing" could imply a spontaneous, unscripted offering, a creative outpouring that is both organic and deeply felt. The "blessing" aspect leans into the spiritual and ceremonial, echoing the Gregorian chant influence, while "for the animal" connects to the primal, instinctual, and perhaps even the raw, untamed aspects of existence. This suggests that the album might embrace spontaneity, complex harmonic structures, and a sense of musical dialogue, all while maintaining a spiritual or meditative core. The "weird" and "beautiful" description finds its synthesis here, as jazz itself often navigates these very qualities, embracing dissonance and complexity alongside profound melodic beauty.
Chronology of Revelation: From "Dream Of Water" to "What Plant Jumps Over Me?"
The journey into A Jazz Blessing For The Animal began with the release of its lead single, "Dream Of Water," which set a compelling precedent for the album’s thematic and sonic scope.
The Inaugural Glimpse: "Dream Of Water"
Released last month, "Dream Of Water" served as the initial introduction to Strawberry Hands’ distinct sound. While specific details of its lyrical content or precise musical structure are not provided in the original text, its title alone suggests themes of the subconscious, fluidity, introspection, and perhaps a yearning for purity or escape. Water, a universal symbol, often represents emotions, the unconscious mind, purification, and transformation. The track likely offered listeners a glimpse into the album’s atmospheric depth and Brunner’s unique approach to songwriting, establishing a mood that is both ethereal and grounded. Its early reception would have been crucial in building anticipation, positioning A Jazz Blessing For The Animal as a significant release within the independent music landscape. The success of this initial offering undoubtedly paved the way for the eager reception of the subsequent single.
Unpacking the Latest Offering: "What Plant Jumps Over Me?"
The release of "What Plant Jumps Over Me?" marks a pivotal moment in the album’s pre-release campaign, offering a deeper dive into Brunner’s artistic intentions. His own statement about the song is remarkably candid and provides a rich tapestry for interpretation: "binary-form inquiry into the bipolar spectrum: breathlessly enjambed, stream-of-consciousness verses ride a swaggering groove of equal parts grandeur and anger. Then the star burns up, time slows down, the frequencies grow heavy, and I am left in the dark with questions about the burden of consciousness."
This statement is layered with meaning, revealing a meticulously crafted piece of music that is both structurally defined and thematically complex. The "binary-form inquiry into the bipolar spectrum" suggests a musical composition structured around two contrasting sections, mirroring the duality and fluctuating states associated with bipolar disorder. This could manifest as shifts in tempo, dynamics, instrumentation, or mood, reflecting the intense highs and lows, the rapid cycling, and the internal struggles inherent in the bipolar experience. The song becomes not just a musical piece, but a sonic exploration of a specific mental state, an "inquiry" rather than a definitive statement, indicating an ongoing process of understanding and questioning.
Lyrically, the "breathlessly enjambed, stream-of-consciousness verses" point to a dense, uninterrupted flow of thought, mimicking the racing mind or the associative nature of internal monologue. This technique allows for a raw, unfiltered expression of inner turmoil and observation, aligning with the McKenna influence of exploring the depths of consciousness. These verses are set against a "swaggering groove of equal parts grandeur and anger," implying a musical foundation that is both confident and emotionally charged. The "grandeur" could come from expansive instrumentation or soaring melodies, while "anger" might be conveyed through distorted sounds, dissonant harmonies, or a driving, insistent rhythm. This contrast within the groove itself speaks to the complex emotional landscape being navigated.
The shift described – "Then the star burns up, time slows down, the frequencies grow heavy, and I am left in the dark with questions about the burden of consciousness" – signals a dramatic transition within the song. The "star burns up" could be a metaphor for burnout, collapse, or the fading of an intense emotional high. The subsequent slowing of time and heavy frequencies indicate a descent into a more introspective, perhaps melancholic or even depressive state, where the weight of existence and self-awareness becomes paramount. The "burden of consciousness" directly ties back to the philosophical underpinnings suggested by the Terrance McKenna reference, exploring the existential challenges of being aware, thinking, and feeling deeply.
Reviewers have described "What Plant Jumps Over Me?" as a "hypnotic, sprawling journey akin to a psalm." "Hypnotic" suggests a repetitive, trance-like quality, drawing the listener into its intricate world. "Sprawling" indicates an expansive, perhaps lengthy or structurally complex piece that unfolds gradually. The comparison to a "psalm" reinforces the spiritual, contemplative, and deeply personal nature of the song, aligning with the Gregorian chant influence and the idea of a "blessing." Psalms are often expressions of praise, lament, or prayer, reflecting a wide range of human emotions directed towards a higher power or an inner truth. This description solidifies the song’s position as a profound and immersive artistic statement.
The accompanying music video, directed by Marissa Losoya, serves as a crucial visual interpretation of these complex themes. While details of its content are not provided, it is logical to infer that the video would employ imagery and narrative structures that complement the song’s journey through mental states, consciousness, and the natural world, enhancing the overall sensory experience for the audience.
Broader Implications: Art, Mental Health, and the Indie Music Landscape
The emergence of Strawberry Hands and the release of A Jazz Blessing For The Animal carry broader implications for the independent music scene, artistic expression, and the ongoing dialogue surrounding mental health.
The Significance of Independent Labels and Endorsements
The album’s release on Otherly Love, an independent label, underscores the vital role such platforms play in fostering unique and experimental artistry that might not fit the molds of mainstream commercial music. Independent labels often provide artists with greater creative freedom and a supportive environment for developing niche sounds. The endorsement from a prominent artist like Weyes Blood (Natalie Mering) is invaluable for an emerging act. Mering’s own critical acclaim and distinctive sound lend significant credibility to Brunner’s project, drawing attention from her established fanbase and the wider music press. This kind of peer recognition can be a powerful catalyst for an artist’s visibility and influence within a crowded industry.
Artistic Exploration of Mental Health and Consciousness
Strawberry Hands’ explicit engagement with themes like the "bipolar spectrum" and the "burden of consciousness" positions Brunner’s work within a growing trend of artists using their platforms to openly discuss mental health. In an era where destigmatization of mental illness is paramount, art serves as a crucial vehicle for empathy, understanding, and personal reflection. By articulating such complex internal experiences through music, Brunner not only offers a form of catharsis for himself but also provides a resonant voice for listeners who may share similar struggles. This approach transforms music into more than just entertainment; it becomes a form of inquiry, a shared experience of vulnerability and resilience, aligning with the introspective and philosophical underpinnings of his work.
Cultivating a Niche for the "Weird and Beautiful"
The description of Strawberry Hands’ music as both "weird and beautiful" highlights its appeal to an audience that actively seeks out music beyond conventional boundaries. This niche audience values originality, intellectual depth, and emotional complexity, gravitating towards artists who challenge listeners while simultaneously offering profound aesthetic rewards. Strawberry Hands’ blend of Terrance McKenna’s philosophical explorations, Gregorian chant’s spiritual solemnity, and a "folk with swagger" aesthetic carves out a unique space that defies easy categorization. This positions Brunner as a significant voice for those who appreciate music as an art form capable of profound intellectual and emotional engagement, contributing to a vibrant ecosystem of experimental and thought-provoking independent artists.
Anticipation Builds for September Release
As the release date of September 18th approaches, anticipation for A Jazz Blessing For The Animal continues to mount. Strawberry Hands, led by the visionary Jacob Brunner, is poised to deliver an album that promises to be a deeply personal yet universally resonant exploration of consciousness, spirituality, and the human condition. With "Dream Of Water" and "What Plant Jumps Over Me?" serving as compelling previews, the full album is expected to solidify Strawberry Hands’ reputation as an artist capable of crafting music that is both challenging and profoundly moving. This unique blend of the esoteric and the earthy, the sacred and the raw, ensures that A Jazz Blessing For The Animal will be an essential listen for anyone seeking music that dares to be truly different and beautifully profound.
