Now this is something special.
When Jamie Isaac’s new song landed in my inbox I didn’t jump on it instantly. However, I regretted that decision once I finally got around to playing it. I got lost in the mesmerising backdrop of “Doing Better” before I even paid attention to the lyrical content and the accompanying video.
The latest single from the young Londoner sounds like something Jamie Woon might have made for his debut album, Mirrorwriting. Why do I think that? It’s the swooning production coupled with a key arrangement that sparks something almost unexplainable within your soul.
Then add to it some Frank Ocean-esque effortless vocal delivery that, at times, feels more like a harmonious speaking tone than someone actually singing.
The groove on “Doing Better” is laid back. Its multi-layered structure pairs together jazz, R&B, soul, and Hip Hop music. Instrumentally it breathes deep while lyrically it tussles with being cut deep emotionally and how we often window dress our emotions just to save face.
“I think about the way these words are for display.”
Accompanied by a music video directed by Xavier Damase (the same person that did J Hus’ “Did You See”) “Doing Better”, like much of Isaac’s music, is designed with the intention to be consumed in transit – in the car, on the bus, walking to work – so the driving through South East London’s nightscape, vibing out concept of the video makes perfect sense.
Jamie Isaac has also announced shows in London, New York and L.A. in June, including his biggest headline gig to date (London’s Village Underground on June 12th) which should prove an unmissable chance to catch a star on the rise. He will also play support for Nick Hakim on the UK leg of his tour that kicks off on Monday.
Jamie Isaac tour dates are as follows:
Monday 12th February, Hare & Hounds, Birmingham *
Tuesday 13th February, The Lantern, Bristol *
Wednesday 14th February, Koko, London *
Thursday 15th February, Brudenell Social Club, Leeds *
Friday 16th February, King Tut’s, Glasgow *
Saturday 17th February, Deaf Institute, Manchester *
Tuesday 12th June, Village Underground, London
Monday 18th June, Rough Trade, New York
Wednesday 20th June, Moroccan Lounge, Los Angeles, USA
* with Nick Hakim
Get your tickets here.
While Jamie works on his sophomore album, his debut, Couch Baby, is available to listen to now.
