Some of you more keen-eared listeners might be familiar with Jacob Jeffries as a member of the band Vulfpeck. As it happens, the musician also likes to dip his toe into solo songwriting. Listening to his newest single ‘Steady’, we’re grateful for that one-man outlet. This track is a warm-toned ode to friendship; the kind of unconditional relationships that can pull us up even in our darkest moments. It’s a notable departure from the funky gems of Vulfpeck, yet that knack for emotional clarity and lyrical charm is an undeniable thread through both projects.
‘Steady’ opens with a relatable image of life captured in the moment; spilled wine, social mishaps and a hero-like friend smoothing everything over. The lyrics draw you into this intimate space, which is further emphasised by sparse acoustic elements and mellow harmonies. You can really her how Jeffries pours both wit and heart into his songwriting. We especially love this chorus line, “when I’m airborne Evil Knievel, you steady the bike.”
Reminiscent of Gregory Alan Isakov, Lord Huron and Sufjan Stevens, ‘Steady’ utilises a simple arrangement in order to explore the missteps, inside jokes and unspoken support systems of authentic friendships. It genuinely makes for such a refreshing listen in this era of showboating and highlight reels.
In short, Jacob Jeffries gives us storytelling at its best. Honest, unabashed and with a touch of levity.
You can listen to ‘Steady’ in our Folk This Way playlist.
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