A familiar name in the Australian indie-folk circuit, Jo Davie has been diligently polishing her craft for years, her music degree from Queensland Conservatorium being proof of how invested in the music she has been. Now, with her debut EP, Nothing Comes Free, the Brisbane artist puts the skills to use.
Together with producer Sam Cromack who produced the entire project, she created a cohesive body of work that explores the evanescent nature of relationships. Nothing Comes Free captures the different emotions that come with letting go. Wrapped in warm indie-folk production, the songs feel very intimate.
The first track, “Throw Me A Rope”, describes being in relationship limbo, where the feeling is that, if someone can’t love you, it’s better that they release you. It balances passion with fragility.
“Cemetery” is a moodier, more introspective song. Rooted in Jo’s acoustic beginnings, its gentle soundscape allows her to process a relationship’s death and seek peace.
There are hints of nostalgia in “Sandcastles”, a melancholic piece delving into loss — Jo misses her late mother. It’s about those cherished memories and the occasional sadness that lingers.
The title track (and EP closer) is a soothing reminder to not worry about what happens next but instead revel in the beautiful moments of the present. It’s imbued with a feeling of both longing and acceptance. Jo Davie filmed a lovely music video to accompany this song, which is, perhaps, the perfect encapsulation of her tender style.
Nothing Comes Free is a showcase of masterful storytelling and, simply, a beautiful collection of songs that enthrals from beginning to end. The singer baring her soul on the songs make them deeply relatable and worth listening to again and again.
Stream the EP below and follow Jo Davie on Instagram. More info about the project or the artist can be found on her official website.
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