Jill Jackson, one of Scotland’s leading singer-songwriters, is set to release her beautifully crafted new album, Yours Aye, on Friday 6 May.
This latest record from the acclaimed Americana artist is her most exposing body of work to date and one which showcases her heart-rending vocals and demonstrates the care and sensitivity with which she approaches songwriting.
Drawing comparisons to the likes of Brandi Carlile and Joni Mitchell, Jill is a natural-born storyteller, who effortlessly marries swinging American charm with a Scottish heart in Yours Aye. The record takes listeners on an emotional journey as it explores themes of love, life and learning.
Inspired by the experiences of her grandfather during World War II – which carry a message all too relevant in the world today – Jill created the title track Yours Aye and this became the catalyst for the entire album.
Jill’s ability to bring raw emotion to her material is never more evident than in the moving All I’ve Ever Known. Elsewhere, Baby Chicken is a fun country-infused tribute to motherhood and Sweeter Than Honey, a jaunty, upbeat number about love.
The record Jill has always wanted to make, Yours Aye was recorded between Tileyard Studios, London and Chem19 Glasgow. Recorded and mixed by Jon Kelly (Paul McCartney, Kate Bush and Richard Ashcroft) and produced by Boo Hewerdine, it features Paul Crawford on drums, Al Gare (Imelda May) on double bass, Conor Smith on guitar, Melvin Duffy (First Aid Kit) on pedal steel, Johnny MacKinnon on keys and John McCusker on fiddle.
Jill said: ‘I’m incredibly happy to be releasing Yours Aye into the world. It feels like this album is the culmination of everything I’ve done so far, ever since I first picked up a guitar as a little girl. It shares some of my darkest thoughts, the loss of a loved one and relationship challenges, but it also celebrates the joy.
‘I grew up attached to the classic country music my parents doted on, and was especially drawn to strong female role models like Patsy Cline and Dolly Parton. They still inspire my work today – in particular by the way in which they value honesty as songwriters.
‘Each song I write is personal, it’s based on my own life and experiences. People connect with that, which is an incredible feeling. Conveying raw emotion was critical to Yours Aye and I hope it resonates with people.’
The former front woman of noughties pop-rock group Speedway, Jill has enjoyed an illustrious 20-year career – from signing to major record label Virgin EMI and topping the UK singles chart, to performing on Top of the Pops and stages around the world such as T In The Park and Glastonbury, writing for Mel C and touring with the likes of Bryan Adams.
With five solo records already under her belt, Jill’s previous album, 2018’s Are We There Yet? was released to critical acclaim, reaching number 3 in the iTunes UK Country Charts. Yours Aye builds on this impressive track record, presenting a stunningly thoughtful sixth studio album.
Jill has a string of performances lined up for 2022 including her album launch Glasgow’s Cottiers on Thursday, 19 May and tour support for Eddi Reader across the UK and Ireland.
Yours Aye is available to buy on CD, stream and download from Friday 6 May.
For more information visit jilljacksonofficial.com.
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