Jayler is a new band from the UK and seems to be the British answer to a band like Greta Van Fleet. Who, in turn, drew their inspiration from a band like Led Zeppelin.
It’s no different with Jayler, though here we’re dealing with a group of young men who are all around 20 years old. And to think that they already released their first EP, ‘A Piece In Our Time,’ back in 2023.
Spirit of the Golden Age
‘Voices Unheard’ is the first full-length album released by these young Brits, and it’s sure to get them heard, as a major tour with none other than Deep Purple is scheduled for the fall—an opportunity that will introduce the young men to a vast audience of potential fans of the music Jayler creates.
Jayler tries to capture the spirit of the Golden Age and give it a modern, raw edge, and I have to say that the guys succeed quite well at that.
stunningly beautiful
These young men were most likely born with a creative golden touch, because these musicians certainly don’t lack talent.
Singer/guitarist James Bartholomew has a great voice that at times bears a resemblance to Robert Plant’s, without him having to strain his voice to achieve it, and guitarist Tyler Arrowsmith provides fitting guitar riffs for the songs.
Fortunately, it’s not just riffs we’re treated to, but genuinely well-crafted songs with a nice structure.
As a preview of the album, three singles have already been released. “Riverboat Queen,” “Down Below,” and “Need Your Love” offer a taste of what to expect from these talented guys.
The song “Bittersweet” is a stunningly beautiful and understated track that allows the essence of a bittersweet experience to unfold in intricate detail.
’70s swagger
These four guys in Jayler have what it takes to effortlessly hold their own against the greats of the ’70s, and they bring a healthy dose of swaggering riffs, soulful vocals, and—not least—songwriting skills you wouldn’t necessarily expect from a band of young guys like Jayler.
In any case, I don’t think it’ll be a chore to see this band perform alongside the grandmasters of Deep Purple.
Mission accomplished as far as I’m concerned, because this album simply exudes ’70s swagger in the best sense of the word.
Report by Raymond Helebrand
