Fresh off the success of his sophomore EP why don't you come over?, Auckland creative Jack Panther is back with new single Weekend At Bernies, a tight alt-pop release carefully positioned for commercial success.
Weekend At Bernies uses distorted digital instruments to tell the story of a relationship fizzling out. Prominent electric guitars feel as though they're melting through each verse, becoming stilted and jumpy in the choruses. Subtle electronic drums allow the song to move through steadily without too much dynamic change.
At times, the track's slick pop production and simple melodies play it relatively safe. But details like distant snippets of conversation in the background of the second verse add some interest. They sharply contrast Jack's smooth vocal performance, which makes the song a playful, enjoyable listen, but also does well to convey the often frantic and complex emotions of heading towards a break-up. The track's bright pink and blue cover art is also worth a mention, as its bold Y2K aesthetics portray Jack's irreverent, candid artistic identity further.
It's clear Weekend At Bernies is another stellar entry into Panther's catalogue, now overflowing with concise, hook-laden tracks that position him as a powerful force in Aotearoa's pop music industry.
Developing in the Wellington scene and born in Auckland is queer artist Jack Panther, who uses his craft to blend tones of melancholy with pop. 2020 will see the release of Panther’s sophomore EP, This Dream I Had, a collaboration alongside UK based producer Ian Barter who has worked in developing artists including Amy Winehouse, FKA Twigs and Paloma Faith.
Panther experiences vivid and complex dreams, and one particular dream about the future of himself and his partner inspired the concept for the EP. He explains, “the tracks were written when I was in a passionate relationship that turned toxic. I wrote about every intense moment of the relationship and ended up narrating its demise”.
From beginning to finish the tracks tell a narrative of summer love, long distance and heartbreak. His writing intertwines personal experiences with relatable feelings which showcase a vulnerable, brooding pop-side.