Asha Jefferies’ latest release, ‘Brand New Bitch’, serves as an electrifying preview to her upcoming debut album, ‘Ego Ride‘, slated for release on April 12th. The track is a compelling blend of intuitive anthemic rock reminiscent of Tom Petty, coupled with the emotional resonance found in the works of Gracie Abrams and Olivia Rodrigo.
Jefferies crafted ‘Brand New Bitch’ as a celebration of self-discovery, particularly in her journey as a young queer woman. The song exudes a propulsive energy and catchiness characteristic of top-tier pop, enriched by the vibrant liveliness achieved through recording with a full band in a traditional studio setting. The bass line kicks in with an undeniable vigour, setting ablaze the listener’s senses.
Accompanying the single is a visually intriguing music video shot across multiple locations in Meanjin, creating a narrative of liberation and moving on. The video captures attention with peculiar scenes, prompting onlookers to question the significance of a bike helmet, a balloon, or a bucket of water.
‘Ego Ride‘ promises to be a collection of songs embodying a spectrum of emotions, from joy and heartbreak to playfulness and tenderness. Jefferies describes the album as a story of growth and self-discovery, stemming from heartbreak and leading to identity revelations. Collaborating with her band and producer Sam Cromack, the album showcases a diverse sonic landscape, shifting seamlessly from indie pop to piano ballads, psychedelic indie rock to folktronica.
Asha Jefferies’ musicality draws from a broad range of influences, including Angel Olsen, Big Thief, The Beatles, Lucy Dacus, Father John Misty, and Radiohead. Her vulnerability and exploration of queerness resonate deeply, evident in her earlier work like the celebrated single ‘Tank Tops’. With a track record of touring alongside acclaimed acts and a string of festival appearances, Asha Jefferies continues to carve her niche in the indie-pop landscape. ‘Brand New Bitch’ sets the stage for an eagerly anticipated debut album that promises to be a transformative and introspective journey into the artist’s evolving identity.
Photo by Jeff Andersen Jnr
