Singer/Songwriter Jason Shand makes his presence known with the title track of his second full length album, The Petty Narcissist (Arctic Ocean). Through moody chords and emotional lyrics The Petty Narcissist (Arctic Ocean) leaves a lasting impression. Shand is successful in creating a melancholy track that still gets your blood pumping. With melodies that rise and fall similar to the ocean, the overall tone of The Petty Narcissist (Arctic Ocean) stays with you after one listen.
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Shand’s upcoming album is a collection of personal songs that focus on interpersonal relationships. The Petty Narcissist (Arctic Ocean) itself, details the woes of two people who are no longer good for each other but can’t seem to part ways. Shand effortlessly dictates the simple yet difficult reality that breaking off a relationship with someone you care for takes courage. Shand addresses this with a clever lyric about playing a game of “Knick Knack Paddy Whack” to see who, out of the two, is strong enough to end things. Shand keeps his lyrics both personal and vague, allowing listeners to find resonance in The Petty Narcissist (Arctic Ocean).
Shand’s vocal skill is a stand-out on this track. Cool melodies reminiscent of Radiohead and U2 merge with Shand’s naturally robust voice for a well balanced performance. Although the subject matter is dark, Shand never turns this pop song into a ballad. Shand relieves some of the emotional weight during the bridge by using lighter chords and hitting dreamy notes. The bridge provides commentary on soul searching, a topic Shand explores on the upcoming album. It also adds a feeling of melodrama to the track when the brooding chorus comes back in.
The Petty Narcissist (Arctic Ocean) impressed me with it’s ability to take me on a journey. It’s not often you come across a pop song that tells a story. You can feel Shand getting lost and found as the song progresses. It makes what could’ve been a simple pop song feel more artistic and personal. Shand doesn’t hide behind melodies or lyrics. There is a depth in his lyrics that only comes from someone who has had to turn their pain into something else. Shand approaches a messy topic with crisp production and a vision that turns The Petty Narcissist (Arctic Ocean) into a cinematic cautionary tale.
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Shand’s willingness to explore and experiment with his genre makes The Petty Narcissist (Arctic Ocean) hard to miss. With such a distinct identity, I suspect The Petty Narcissist (Arctic Ocean) to be a stand out on the album. It also makes me curious about what other songs Shand has up his sleeve for The Petty Narcissist (Arctic Ocean), which is set to release January 21, 2022. The Petty Narcissist (Arctic Ocean) certainly doesn’t feel like a one off. Shand has found the sweet spot between personal struggle and artistic success. Shand’s honesty is omnipresent in this track, my guess is that it makes an appearance on the whole album. Jason Shand is one to watch, don’t miss the new album!
Clay Burton
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