Storytelling and musical diversity, skilfully united for a calm and captivating listen. Allan J connects and engages with listeners, for the brand new single Rise Above.
The first song from an upcoming album, Rise Above introduces the raspy vocals and introspective, poetic lyrics of Allan J amidst a striking acoustic backdrop. The crisp guitar sound, however, is contrasted and complemented by an unexpectedly dramatic and rather industrial drumline. It’s a humble mix though, layers quietly intertwined, and ultimately the upfront intimacy and depth of the voice guides things.
Later accompanied by a second and female vocal, Rise Above’s central sentiment resounds with brightness and possibility. Subtle dashes of warped electric guitar and changes in melody help reinforce a kind of freedom and self-expression that’s inherent in the lyrics. The latter half even welcomes a spoken section to fully explore this theme of overcoming, of confronting the self and evolving past the confines of expectation.
As a child, Allan J was part of the district honor choir in Phoenix, AZ. By 18 he was lead singer and co-songwriter of an LA band, and he later joined a university gospel choir in California. His life continued to utilise and celebrate music and self-expression, leading to a boldly versatile set of experiences, and a performative voice that’s unmistakable at the helm.
From folk pop softness to Johnny Cash confidence and grit, the style of Allan J rings loud as consistently unique for this release. The set-up and production, the lyrics and melodic meandering, the voice itself, all leans in the direction of something both original and inspiring, and fittingly, that’s also the essence of the song itself.
“Well I see my soul from outside of myself… There’s no easy way out. Dead or alive, I’m going out on top.”
