Jacob Bellens / Swim Lesson

Jacob Bellens latest delivery is called 'Swim Lesson' consists of two brand-new songs, ‘Can’t Shazam It’ and ‘Scarlet Letter’. 

Like with the predecessor ‘Love Is Robotic’, which came out in summer, Jacob loves the opportunity to try out new material and new sound fittings in a non-album-environment. And while the Danish singer/songwriter indeed works on a new album, these two new songs provide another window into his laboratory and showcase somewhat unexpected slices of magic. 

Something happened. Politically. 
I think the world changed while I was asleep.
Someone ancient who was in a band made a song that I don't understand. 
And it's got me all shook up though the style is not my cup of tea.
Sounding absolutely magical.
It starts a fire in me, I'm head over heels.
But I can't shazam it

‘Can’t Shazam It’ contains lots of the elements we know and love from Jacob - wry, tongue-in-cheek lyrics with a cutting, sardonic delivery. However, the production is filled with tuned 808s, rolling hihats and massive sub bass pulses that underpin the lyrics, describing a failed attempt to identify a song playing on the radio, as well as the following melancholic acceptance of not being able to do so. Despite its title and lyrical matter, it transcends humour and quickly reveals itself as a bass heavy but melodically light snack that sticks to your brain like a bad habit.

Scarlet Letter, the second song off 'Swim Lesson' utilizes some of the same genre components but in a slightly darker musical and personal setting. Distorted slow motion beats and warped sci-fi synthesizers set the scene for a song about emotional neglect, and the fear of being alone. Somehow Bellens manages to find a way to balance the pop techniques of top 10 hits, with a sarcastic and dark but also personal angle.

Both tracks are produced by local enigma and fellow Copenhagen mystic La Martinus. Cover artwork by Line Rasmussen.