Self-identified as a “sucker for the nitty and the gritty,” Jacob Alon crafts narratives in both light and dark tones, captivating listeners with their intricately finger-picked folk melodies. The prominent falsetto has led many to assume they were influenced by Jeff Buckley during their upbringing; however, their voice is more a reflection of their mother’s appreciation for ‘90s female pop and RnB, which shaped their early musical tastes.
Raised in Fife, Jacob initially pursued Medicine and then Theoretical Physics at Edinburgh University before ultimately deciding to chase their own dream. This decision has proven fruitful: in January, they embarked on their first UK tour with their band and, despite some anxiety-laden moments, received excellent reviews from both Nick Grimshaw and Olly Alexander.
Olly invited Jacob to be the opening act on his Polari tour, and although performing for thousands of pop enthusiasts can be daunting, they have come to value the opportunity to connect with audiences. “There was a palpable sense of ‘this is making an impact and reaching people,’” they reflect on the January performances. “It genuinely moved me.”
Emotions drive Jacob’s music, with their songs conveying feelings as well as personal stories. However, some pieces can be challenging to finalize; one unreleased track resisted completion until poet and musician Kae Tempest helped bring clarity. “All they did was transcribe my words and recite them back to me,” Jacob shares. “Sometimes, a person just needs to hold up a mirror at the right angle for you to perceive yourself as they do.”
Demonstrating the unyielding nature of their songwriting, their third single ‘Liquid Gold 25’ derives its name from a competing brand of the amyl nitrites featured in Troye Sivan’s ‘Rush,’ exploring the heavier, self-deprecating aspects of hookup culture. “There are countless wonderful elements that can leave you feeling amazing,” Jacob notes. “Yet, there’s a darker side that hasn’t been discussed much.”
Sharing queer narratives is a vital aspect of Jacob’s project, made even more daunting by the pervasive divide-and-rule politics seen globally. However, it’s clear from speaking to Jacob that they possess a strong belief in the goodness of human nature.
“The forces of attraction—love, connection, and community—far outweigh the forces of repulsion and hate. I want to acknowledge the fear but also keep my community close, feeling the support beneath me.”
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WHAT: Glitter-stained ‘Freak folk’ confessions
WHERE: Born in Fife, raised in Edinburgh
3 SONGS: ‘Liquid Gold 25,’ ‘Confession,’ ‘Fairy in a Bottle’
FACT: Cites Nick Drake and Adrianne Lenker as key influences
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Jacob Alon sports the schuh Finn Trim in Black, available at schuh. Featured in CLASH 130.
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Words: Caitlin Chatterton
Photography: Bella Howard
Fashion: Jessica Anna Richardson
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Jacob Alon, who refers to himself as a “sucker for the nitty and the gritty,” narrates tales in both light and shadow, captivating listeners with his gentle, finger-picked melodies.