Jack Blackman has been busy. Rather than spending lockdown binge watching Netflix, Blackman has fed his fans with release to release, making 2020 worthwhile. His latest single, ‘Straight Up Genius’ captures the new meaning of everyday life amidst Covid.
Upbeat and jangly, ‘Straight Up Genius’ is joyful track with a bouncing melody that flies high alongside rich vocal harmonies. However, track’s lyrics are layered with brutally honest undertones, exposing the troubles of everyday routine. Waking up at 7:30, the song describes a character who struggles to find a reason to get up. Blackman dedicates this track ‘to anyone at home during these times!’
The music video (made by Art Doodler) perfectly depicts the banality of lockdown routine with its simple yet effective drawings that brings the ‘Straight Up Genius’ character to life.
One thing that Blackman never fails at is his immaculate guitar skills that shine through this track, with a 12-string slide guitar, alongside the banjo and percussion futures. Blackman reminds me of Elvis Costello, Bob Dylan, The Kinks, belonging different era, with its older nostalgic feel. Even more so in this track, the 60s vibes shine through, that is almost addictive and hard not to feel happy while listening.
Sonically, Blackman is a ‘straight up genius.’ Capturing the monotonous and banal lifestyle that they call ‘the new normal,’ ‘Straight Up Genius’ puts an upbeat twist on dull routines.
By: Imogen Evans