Melbourne artist Jacuqi Lumsden has today released her second single of the year, the evocative “Pretending Season”. The track follows “I Love Me” which was released in February. We are buzzed today to be premiering the video, ahead of its release tomorrow.
The track journeys through themes of relationships, and the fears we often have to navigate when dealing with them. There is a sparkling effervescence to the delivery, packed with passion, as Jacqui unloads her innermost thoughts.
About the track, Jacqui writes: “‘Pretending Season’ is about hiding within your own relationship – pretending everything is fine because if you face your fear and confront the issues, it might lead to the relationship ending. In my case, I did not want my relationship to be over. I was clearly clinging onto something and so was he, which resulted in us both living in this horrible, insincere experience.
Typically, I’ll mine my life for writing inspiration long after the events have happened with the benefit of hindsight. I love this song because I think writing it while being in that emotional state has given it this really raw and honest quality. It captures exactly how I was feeling and I’m really proud of that. I think not being able to recognise yourself or your partner at times during a relationship is something that a lot of people can relate to.”
The synths and driving beat, powered along with Jacqui’s emotive vocals are mesmerising here. It has the grit and fire of Wolf Alice, so will no doubt appeal to their fans. Fans of Chappell Roan should also find plenty to love here. The track was recorded at Supersonic Studios in Cheltenham with producer Brad Jackson.
About the video, Jacqui told the AU: “The idea behind the video was to do something really simple that let the emotion and the lyrics be the hero. I wanted a visual representation of “pretending” on my face so we decided to build on the makeup throughout the video. It starts with just an eyebrow, then a nose and by the end I’m a sort of sad clown. I’m trying to convey how prolonged emotional distance can turn you into an unrecognisable version of yourself. The makeup was skilfully executed by Melbourne makeup artist Bella Drummond.”
Enjoy the video, and keep an eye out for performances by Jacqui in Melbourne. Her live shows are truly outstanding.
You can keep up to date with Jacqui Lumsden via her Website, Facebook, TikTok, You Tube and Instagram
Photo Credit: Francis Kurth
