Dirty Days by Jaed on Instant Karma Records Reviewed By Steve Rudd

The Jaed entity is basically Vanessa Eve on vocals and guitar, backed by a bassist and drummer. It's primarily Vanessa's 'gig' as such, and she's clearly the driving force behind all of these eleven songs. Vanessa grew up in Melbourne, but her childhood wasn't a particularly rosy experience for her, especially when she found herself living on the streets of Melbourne at the tender age of sixteen, with something of a burgeoning drug habit to fund. She somehow escaped such a despairing life of drudgery, exorcising many of her demons via her music. Thus, some of the songs are possessed by dark subject matters, yet most of these tunes are so anthemic the net effect is that they are thoroughly uplifting.

Making a statement from the off, the opening tune in Catherine is a no-holds-barred punk-rock stormer that lasts all of 47 seconds, before My Way makes its presence felt. Vanessa grew up listening to bands such as L7, Hole and the Pixies - and such bands have clearly had an influence on the music she's currently making. She does possess a similar attitude to the likes of Courtney Love when it comes to confidently singing and playing her heart out. There's also a hint of Alanis Morissette-esque grunginess surfacing in fits and starts, while her Dream Hair bears a little in common with the style and substance of KT Tunstall.

Just like KT, Vanessa has a beautiful voice when she isn't using it in an aggressive manner. The slow-paced Scream number also showcases her vocal talents to spine-chilling effect, with this being a profoundly personal song that is one of the album highlights.

Sleeping Beauty comes last but not least and is another slow and seductive song. It's time to wake up, sensually croons Vanessa, and she couldn't be more right. It's time to wake up to the music of Jaed, because whether the songs are fast or slow, or hyperactive or becalming, there's such unbridled honesty throughout Dirty Days that makes life worth living all the more. From the ridiculously catchy Gutter Girl to the cunningly cool Kiss Me, this album bursts at the seams with thrilling surprises. www.jaedmusic.com E-mail james@caughtinthecrossfire.com for more info

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