Jay Marie, Comfort Me, is the third album from Australian duo Mess Esque, featuring Helen Franzmann (aka McKisko) and Mick Turner (guitarist of Dirty Three), with new collaborators Keeley Young, Kishore Ryan, cellist Stephanie Arnold, and percussionists Bree van Reyk and Jim White. It builds on their ethereal indie rock foundations, adding stronger rhythmic elements throughout.
The album moves between 'Take Me To Your Infinite Garden' with its snarling guitars, pounding toms, and layered organ, to the minimalist 'Let Me Know You,' featuring only keyboards with significant space between notes. Turner's exploratory guitar work and textural approach remain central, while Franzmann's vocals shift between cyclical refrains and folk-influenced delivery. The addition of cello and expanded percussion creates a more danceable dimension, giving new drive and energy to the atmospheric sounds and dream pop elements.
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