A heartfelt album that showcases her poetic expressions...
Joy Crookes releases her much-anticipated new album, ‘Juniper’, after a four-year wait for fans.
‘Juniper’ is a joyful, adventurous, and highly intelligent album that explores themes such as love, mental health, critiques of the music industry, politics, and self-acceptance. The album navigates these topics effortlessly, all tied together neatly within the vibrant world of ‘Juniper’.
Her 2021 album ‘Skin’ earned nominations for both a Mercury and a BRIT, cementing her reputation as a significant songwriter. With 'Juniper', she proves herself to be as much a poet as a storyteller. Her knack for crafting songs that are both clever and thought-provoking shines through in tracks like ‘Carmen’ and ‘Perfect Crime’, with the former being a stellar example of sarcasm delivered in an accessible and light-hearted manner.
The album opens with ‘Brave’, where Crookes’ voice is instantly recognizable as she sings, “Love is trying to be my friend / what you gonna do when I hand you my heart,” setting the stage for the record’s themes rooted in wonder and introspection. But this is only the beginning, as the album reveals Crookes’ growing assertiveness and honesty. This is what ‘Juniper’ embodies—dynamic and unapologetic.
Collaborating with artists such as Kano and Vince Staples, and under the production of Blue May, Tev’n, and Chrome Sparks, Crookes acknowledges her long-term collaborators for creating a trusting and safe environment for her creativity. Reconnecting with the fundamental joy of “making music” has been vital for Crookes, and what emerges from ‘Juniper’ is a heartfelt reflection on the current state of the world and her own.
In a music industry often preoccupied with discussions about artistry, Crookes emphasizes the essence of music in her work, making it irresistibly engaging. ‘First Last Dance’ remixes Kylie Minogue’s classic ‘Can’t Get You Out Of My Head,’ encouraging listeners to look beyond the surface. The upbeat tempo juxtaposes lyrics that describe a troubling mental health experience and anxiety. Meanwhile, ‘I Know You’d Kill’ critiques the manipulation of identity in the name of inclusivity, making a significant comment on today’s politically charged atmosphere.
Concluding with ‘Paris,’ a bittersweet track reflecting on someone who provided the artist with a sense of peace, ‘Juniper’ encapsulates the idea that losing someone can lead to personal growth. Crookes candidly shares her feelings and vulnerabilities throughout the album, inviting listeners to join her in navigating these experiences.
8/10
Words: Rachel Min Leong
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Joy Crookes releases her much-anticipated new album, 'Juniper', following a four-year wait from fans. 'Juniper' showcases a playful, exploratory, and remarkably intelligent sound.