This time of year, I often find myself gravitating to softer, dreamier sounds. I long for songs where I find something new to love each time I listen. More so, I crave to see this type of music be brought to life on the stage. The Roxy in West Hollywood is the perfect place for this. Last night, I lost myself in the dreamy world of Jay Som when she and her band took the stage at the Roxy.
The Woman Behind The Music
Melina Duterte is the musical mastermind behind Jay Som. The California native has been making music from a very young age. Everything you hear comes straight from Duterte. She’s a singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, producer and mixing engineer. Her 2016 self recorded debut Turn Into was received with much praise making her a promising act in the world of bedroom pop. In addition to producing her own music, Duterte has produced for the critically acclaimed Boy Genius.
For a while, Jay Som was solely the independent project of Duterte, but on 2019’s Anak Ko, the singer brought in outside musicians. This collaborative process carried on to her most recent release. In October, Duterte released Belong, a deep dive in sounds rooted in alt rock, emo and punk. This side to Jay Som is grittier than what listeners are used to, but she masterfully keeps the dreamy elements that have defined her since the beginning. Personally, that’s what I love most about Jay Som. Each album explores new sonic territory all rooted in the bedroom pop realm. The record features Hayley Williams, Jim Adkins, Soft Glass and Mini Trees. It’s a gorgeous album, perfect for the stage.
Jay Som Live At The Roxy
On Sunday night, Jay Som took the stage at the Roxy for the second night of her North American tour. Every night at the Roxy is special, but Jay Som’s set had a certain magic to it that I don’t always experience. The crowd brought the energy, cheering, chatting and singing along all night. Duterte played the majority of Belong and included fan favorites like “Tenderness” and “Superbike” into the set.
Throughout the show, the instrumental outros felt like a sneak peak at the intimate jam sessions that go on behind the scenes of Jay Som’s creative process. Getting lost in the music felt effortless. Duterte and her band meshed well together bringing the new songs to the stage. LA is a special show for all artists. Duterte told the crowd that her last show in LA was in 2019, so last night was a sweet, long awaited homecoming. I am so excited to see what Jay Som does next!
Whether you are a long time fan of Jay Som or just discovering her for the first, now is your chance to see her. Through December, Jay Som will be playing in cities across North America. Get your tickets now!
