London-based Australian singer & songwriter Jess Chalker is set to release her stunning debut solo full length album Hemispheres on November 5 via her own imprint 528 Records, and today shares her latest single, “Cynical.” The smokey, alt-pop gem sees Chalker’s vocals blaze atop sultry guitars, with brooding piano lines that underpin themes of seduction and conflicted relationships. “Musically this song feels quite drama-filled,” said Jess. “There’s a tension in it that’s familiar, like the tumult of being in one of those relationships you know won’t go the distance but feels good in the moment.”

Hemispheres is an emotive, retro-inspired record featuring guitar-driven hooks and warm synths. The gorgeous album – which received funding from the prestigious Australia Council for the Arts – dives into lyrical themes that explore the dichotomy between depression and hopefulness, self-doubt and self-love, and more, with Jess’ expressive vocals slicing through at every turn. Hemispheres was completed under the weight of the pandemic, as Jess dealt with the loss of her day job and heartbreaking health issues at the same time. Like many others, she found herself spiraling, and turned to music to find the creative outlet she needed. Collaborating with friends across Sydney, Los Angeles and London to finish her emotional album, she found much-longed-for freedom too.

The album includes “Stupid Trick,” whose video was inspired by one Jess’ favorite places in London, Postman’s Park, and references cinematic classics including 1956 French film The Red Balloon, Charlie Chaplin and Before Sunrise; “Don’t Fight It” which charted at #1 on Hype Machine and was named to The Guardian’s list of “Best New Australian Music”; “West Hollywood” which was named to Spotify’s Global Fresh Finds and Pop Hits playlists; and “Dance in the Rain.” Jess executive produced Hemispheres, playing many of the instruments herself, enlisting the help of co-producers/co-writers/instrumentalists Dan Long (Local Natives, Pavement), Josh Humphreys (M83) and Ox Why (her former We are the Brave bandmate). Hemispheres was mixed by Billy Centenaro (Sara Bareilles, Lukas Nelson); and mastered by John Davis (The Killers, Lana del Rey).

Jess is best known as the former frontwoman for Australian new-wave duo We Are The Brave, and has been widely praised for her writing, production and vocals. She’s also a sought after collaborator who has worked with artists including Sam Fischer, Vintage Culture, Isamachine, Gold Kimono and Passenger. Jess was also part of a GRAMMY-winning team that co-penned Lisa Loeb’s lead single on her kids record Feel What U Feel. Recently, she also composed the original track “Darkest Hour” for the Amazon Original show Panic, performed by Tate McRae.

Photo Courtesy: Paul Cantlon