Tobias Jesso Jr.
Goon (Arts & Crafts)
The elusive, floppy-haired Tobias Jesso Jr. has a story of mythical proportions. A few years ago, he left a failed music career attempt in Los Angeles and moved back in with his parents in North Vancouver. After tinkering around on his sister’s keyboard, he channeled his defeat into song, which he then emailed to former Girls member JR White. Soon, he was signed to an American indie and the biggest breakout star of 2015.
His debut album Goon begins with the sombre ballad “Can’t Stop Thinking About You”, where Jesso does his best Harry Nilsson or even late '70s Elton John. “How Could You Babe” is a triumphant blue-eyed soul ballad, and “Crocodile Tears” is served with a side of McCartney-irony as he fake-cries his way through the hammering piano chords.
There is something magical about hitting rock bottom. Desperation runs dry, ambition takes a hike, and in this glorious moment of surrender, the best art is often made. Tobias Jesso Jr. has arrived in a flurry of blue-boy pop and balladry, creating one of the most heartfelt debuts of the year.
Rating out of five stars: ★★★★
