Out tomorrow through Bathtub Music, ‘Better Than You Think’ by Jenn Howard, comes from her new album, ‘Valiant Women’.
Set against a brassy, funky New Orleans soundtrack, which at times feels like it also draws from reggae and gospel, ‘Better Than You Think’ is just one of 10 songs from ‘Valiant Women’. Jenn Howard’s full and powerful vocals perfectly reflect the song’s title, as she shows no restraint and gives it all she’s got, expressing with a deep sensuality, and showing why she’s been compared favourably to both Etta James and Susan Tedeschi.
Out of the Big Easy, born and bred, Jenn Howard has taken 15 years to come out with her sophomore album (her debut, ‘Up At Night’ was released in 2009), but the time has certainly been worth it. An amalgam of Americana and Soul styles, as well as those I’ve mentioned above, ‘Valiant Women’ rises like a phoenix, stronger and more powerful than ever before, as it tells the story of one who has achieved self-possession and artistic autonomy.
Speaking of the album, Jenn says,
“This body of work showcases what it was like for me to be a woman searching to discover myself again after losing footing in my hopes and dreams”
‘Better Than You Think’ opens with brass, guitars and drums, setting the stage for Jenn’s mighty vocals, as she tells the tale rising up and facing that it’s not as bad as it seems, if only we give ourselves the opportunity to accept it. It’s deeply revelatory, and one many of us can relate to, whether we consider ourselves valiant women or not.
‘Better Than You Think’ is refreshing, upbeat, and eminently repeatable. Give it a listen, and look out for the organ break starting about the 2/3 mark!
Check out more about Jenn Howard online on her official website, SoundCloud, Facebook, and Instagram.
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