[junkie-dropcap]W[/junkie-dropcap]here was I? The question that comes to mind: when you recall the precise location when you tuned in to your favorite artists’ for the first time. The proverbial timestamp, if you will. When all the right elements come together. Often, these instances are brief, but at the very moment, it feels as if time stood still. Without hesitation, a booming, deep, dare I say sexy tenor pulsates through an ambient membrane and there stands Tristan Carter-Jones. The songstress has a voice so sultry, it’s perilous. Reminiscent of the songs formulated into the intros used on classic Bond films. Smokey, sensual, yet fierce, she floats over the sensational vibes set by the band like a satin ribbon engulfed by a summer breeze.
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Records such as “Blow Smoke” are a perfect example of their progressive sonic aesthetic. Carter-Jones carries a seductive essence which permeates through speakers in a manner unlike anything you’ve accustomed yourself to hearing. There’s a level of excellence expected once the comprehension regarding the capacity of her voice sets in. Although it has the power to pierce through most musical compositions. You’ll find a far more reserved disposition. Often complimenting each record rather than transitioning the listeners’ focus. Yet there isn’t a moment that goes by where you aren’t aware that this power is available. Its stealthfully concealed behind the lush instrumentation provided by her fellow band members and builds to an undeniable presence.
“I’ve got some bad habits/ and your number two. I’ve got some bad whiskey/ don’t mind if I do. You pullin’ six figures/ we blow it by two. If you wanna burn rubbers/ I’m riding with you.”
Her aesthetic matches her voice, a young Chaka Khan meets Wonder Woman. Bold, beautiful with hair only outmatched by her personality. A gravitational force powered by her infectious smile and inviting disposition. In an industry plagued by egos, the rarity of finding individuals who still tap into the core of what makes us human convey joy. We root for these people; we support them, because deep down, we know their value in our lives. For these are the ideals we’d want to see in ourselves. While soulful blues fused with rock sensibilities may be the genre, Dakota Jones Band makes life music and with Tristan Carter-Jones at the helm it becomes for-your-soul music. It transcends what her contemporaries touch on within the realm of traditional rock music.
Records such as “Have Mercy” are fan favorites, as this cut received mass acclaim after Netflix featured the song in “Always Be My Maybe” starring Ali Wong and Randall Park. What makes these records all the more inspiring is how they shine a spotlight on the non-sensationalized sides of love, relationships, sex and raw emotions. The darker struggles of loving someone and sometimes not being loved in return. Those unapologetically toned lonely nights infused with heavy-drinking and burning flower. It’s these songs that capture the emotions of the broken-hearted, yet carry the hopes of those who strive to press forward. While many focus on the erroneous trappings, Dakota Jones Band are laser focused on the essentials. Touching listeners with more than music, cementing them as legends now.
We look forward to listening to their new album when it drops. For now, you can listen to the record “Blow Smoke” in the player below and share your thoughts in the comments. Also, be sure to follow the band on Instagram and Twitter and show them some love. Lastly, for more groundbreaking indie spotlights, Tommy Versailles May Touch Your Soul, If You Let Her.
