The Geraldine raised, Christchurch based artist has proved she is one to watch with previously released singles Lonely, Ache and NZ On Air funded LA. The five track EP cements Jaz as an exciting artist and one to watch in the New Zealand industry.
We begin with opening track LA, a relatable track about the desire to run away. Jaz’s breathy yet strong vocals lure the listener in. The chorus is catchy and immediately sticks in your head. Within a couple of listens I find myself singing along. Instrumentation is simple, allowing Jaz’s vocals to be front and centre.
Things take a dark turn with Ache, the second track, which begins with twinkling, intimate piano and Jaz’s haunting lyrics. A heart-breaking track directed at an ex; Jaz doesn’t hold back with her confessional lyrics. Darker still is third track Lonely, an eerie track about the loneliness of being a musician. Fourth track and my personal favourite is Body, an edgy, powerful song about women claiming back their bodies from the men who objectify them. The EP concludes with piano ballad Heaven, a thoughtful look at Jaz’s relationship with God.
Jaz has an incredible knack for writing powerful, thought provoking lyrics set to catchy, memorable hooks. A natural songwriter, she has the vocal chops to match. Ache is a collection of hook filled, catchy and well produced tracks. Jaz deserves to relish in the success of her debut. I’m excited to see what’s in store for this up and coming artist.
By crafting alternative pop beats with contemporary R&B vocals, gifted singer-songwriter Jaz Paterson delivers refreshingly original music that instantly captivates and intrigues. The Christchurch alternative artist draws on influences from the likes of Banks, Tove Lo, James Blake and Bon Iver, to develop a spellbinding, yet honest and confessional style of music that explores the intricacies of various production techniques.
Jaz’s impressive vocals and songwriting prowess has been showcased on the track Horizon, a collaboration with SHLI and has recently caught the attention of MC Tali whom she has an upcoming collaboration soon to be released.
Recent performances have seen Jaz perform an energy-driven set at the 2021 Christchurch City Council Edge New Year’s Show, which garnered a crowd of 20,000.