Space Discovery: Jem Doulton – “Deal of the Century”
Here we are with another outstanding discovery, today we welcome Jem Doulton who brings his latest creation “Deal of the Century”, an exhilarating plunge into a musical world where genres blend together. This eight-track album shows Jem’s ability to mix eclectic influences into a cohesive yet unpredictable journey, offering us an experience that’s as thought-provoking as it’s sonically adventurous.
From the outset, the title track sets the tone with a biting critique of the last 15 years in the UK, wrapped in a dark, psychedelic soundscape that’s quite gritty and immersive. The track’s sarcastic, politically charged lyrics feel like a gut punch, delivered with a swagger that dares you to look away.. but you can’t. It’s the perfect introduction to an album that doesn’t shy away from making bold statements!
Doulton’s background as a drummer for the Thurston Moore Group is evident in the intricate, rhythmically complex structures that underpin the album. Yet, Deal of the Century is far from a drummer’s vanity project. It’s a collaborative masterpiece, with a cast of talented musicians adding their unique talent and flavors to each track. The result is a rich sound that’s difficult to categorize.
Tracks like “Svetlana” and “At ’em Boy” showcase Jem Doulton’s willingness to experiment, and that’s evident. The first one leans into electronic territory with a beat that wouldn’t feel out of place in a late-night club, while “At ’em Boy” offers a hypnotic, mid-tempo groove, what an ethereal mood that feels surreal. These tracks, along with others on the album, highlight Doulton’s ability to blend disparate elements: psychedelic rock, electronic beats, and avant-garde jazz, into something wholly original.
One of the standout moments is “Rusting Away”, a track that pairs introspective lyrics with a haunting melody, creating an impactful reflection on the passage of time. The album’s closer, “Into The Jetstream”, is a powerful finale, combining the album’s themes of political disillusionment and personal introspection in a way that feels cathartic and resolute.
Deal of the Century is an album that rewards repeated listens. It’s not an easy ride (it challenges and provokes) but it’s a journey worth taking for anyone with a taste for the unconventional.
