Geraldine-raised, Christchurch-based performer Jaz Paterson’s latest release Older takes a stripped-back approach to her electronic artistry. Soft, smooth and serious, it’s a unique single stepping into new territory for the pop musician.
The track’s production is relatively sparse, revolving around a gentle, spacey electric guitar. This leaves the focus on Jaz’s moody vocal performance. Her vocals delve into the fear of growing up to become “someone I hate”, a haunting theme many listeners will relate to. Hangovers, weddings and family homes litter the song’s truthful lyrical imagery, painting a picture of a predictable life that understandably instigates so much uncertainty for Jaz. These ideas are underscored by jittering electronic effects in the second verse, crafting an impressively emotional energy through digital aid. However, whilst the song feels earnest in its unique production, the melodies and instrumentation could sound fuller and more dramatic. It’s a beautifully written song that will stun on stage, but comes across fairly simple in studio form.
Older cuts deeper with every listen, speaking to the difficult feelings of accepting ageing. It’s an expressive, fresh new direction for Jaz Paterson, who proves herself an endlessly honest and creative Kiwi artist with this track.
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.