Although they only came together last year, and hail from Norman, Oklahoma, Different Jane bring with them a sound that could just as easily place them in the UK or Ireland at any time in the past 6 decades or so. New single, ‘Little White Pill’, is from their debut album, ‘Rooms’, set for release tomorrow, September 15.
With comparisons already being drawn to the likes of The Strokes, Arctic Monkeys, and Kings Of Leon, among many others, Different Jane have been set a high bar. Thankfully, the alt rock group which is centred around Ian Roberts, their writer, vocalist, and guitarist, is up to the task. ‘Little White Pill’ is deliciously drawly, without becoming overly comfortable. The band refers to themselves as “Your mom’s new favorite Rock N Roll Band”, and whether or not this is declared tongue in cheek is beside the point; they’re having fun making music, and the music they’re making is great.
Roberts’ influences are as deep rooted as they are evident: the garage rock of the 60s, UK Indie, and punk, and while I’ve described them as “alt rock”, they could just as easily slot into any of those categories – or no category at all – and I’d be fine with that.
‘Little White Pill’, sets off with drums keeping the beat to a slow, late 50s rock speed, then joined by slightly jangly guitars, and Roberts’ laconic vocals. It picks up about a third of the way through, Roberts spinning around while staying completely in control, presumably after he’s procured his little white pill. There’s something about him that reminds me too of Lou Reed, and perhaps the band name is in honour of him – they’re Jane, but not so sweet; they’re different.
‘Rooms’ is out tomorrow. You can find out more about Different Jane online on their official website, Instagram, and YouTube.
