Jay Som
Turn Into
Polyvinyl Records [2016]
Who: Jay Som is the moniker for Bay Area-based singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Melina Duterte. She decided to unveil an early version of Turn Into online last year, performing every instrument—guitar, bass, keys, and drums. Polyvinyl has given it a proper release with Duterte’s proper debut set to release in 2017.
Sound: Jay Som represents DIY and bedroom pop at its best. Think indie acts like Alex G and Frankie Cosmos with a lo-fi sound that stirs up some early Liz Phair.
TFN Final Take: Smart middle range vocals that blend melodies and pop guitar lines into one swirling delight sums up the nine tracks on Turn Into. You can hear the raw talent in Melina Duterte’s voice and style as each song guides you down an indie path that sounds just right to the ears. The hum on “Drown” works perfectly as Duterte’s vocals fight to get out while the shoegaze moments of the closing title track will have you drifting off in a positive space. The straight up indie rock segments hidden in “Peach Boy” and “Next To Me” make the tracks stand out. At 22 years, old, Duterte has turned 9 so called “unfinished” tracks into a very enjoyable first take that hopefully highlights the good things to come on her forthcoming full length. I say – why wait? You should get to know Jay Som now!
Jay Som Website
Jay Som Facebook
Polyvinyl Records
– Reviewed by Thomas Wilde
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