Jack Garratt – Phase
Island Records
All the way from the UK comes Jack Garratt with his debut album, Phase. This young musician is breaking boundaries with his new sound, having definite potential to make it big within the next year. As the album begins with a calm, faded- in melody, Coalesce, Garratt reflects the set mood with the debut of his vocals within the first few seconds.
However, as the song progresses and reaches the chorus, Garrett’s vocals take a turn with a powerful tone, easily evoking emotion from the audience with his showcased vocals and beat. However, as audiences reach the second track, Garratt displays a variety in his talent and sound. He shows fans that he is able to succeed in a more upbeat tempo. Breathe Life not only accomplishes that, but also displaying the amazing vocal range, especially in Far Cry, somewhat imitating the act of crying in his vocals.
Garratt escapes the up- beat music for a slower, more emotional feel in Weathered. Displaying a more serious aspect, the talent sings, “And no wonder I keep you close/ You’re the water to quench my throat/ And if I never let you go/ Will you keep me young/Keep me young”. With the given lyrics, it can easily be said that the audience could relate, which is a key point to having a following. He continues the heart- felt feeling in Worry, yet has a unique approach to it by introducing a catchy beat in the chorus and displaying his fantastic vocal range once again. A piano was introduced on the track, My House is Your Home, clearly showing the most serious and emotional Garrett can get. What is interesting about this track is the echo and rawness of the track, even considering it simply features Garret’s vocals and piano. It seems that the track was not recorded in a typical studio, but in a more intimate place, like a home, hence its name.
Considering this deluxe album consists of nineteen tracks, it is safe to say that there is a great variety of sounds included. Surprise Yourself is a track where Garrett experiments with an angelic vibe and high- ranged vocals. With the melody and tones, the song showcases yet another side of the singer. The album features a more contemporary sound in Fire, with that earlier beat once again. With a similar showcase throughout the wonderful album, Garratt excellently displays his talents of vocal range, variety, and connection. He concludes the deluxe collection with an acoustic version of Water, channeling his alternative side once more and providing another sound to the original track. When listening to it, one can immediately see the similarity to James Bay’s raspy tone … and there’s no doubt Jack Garratt will be as successful as Bay, if not more!