Willow
Bryony Jarman-Pinto

Bryony Jarman-Pinto’s new single “Willow” serves as a protest, voicing her frustrations towards politicians at the time of writing, as she speaks of resisting “ignorance and rumours”. The track is the third single from her upcoming album, ‘Below Dawn’ (Friday 10th May), produced by Ben Lamdin, aka label-mate Nostalgia 77, whose credits include writing and producing for artists such as Jamie Cullum, Alice Russell, and Jeb Loy Nichols.

“Willow” opens with the words “Willow won’t you grow and shelter me? There is a nonsense I do hear”, as a reminder not to succumb to the anger that is readily brought about by the “absence of sanity” in political decisions. The track began with a bassline and chords, influenced by the Jazz Standard “Willow Weep For Me”, from which the track takes its name. Ruta Sipola performs an elegant, dancing flute solo that soundtracks the imagery of branches extending to shield you from social injustice and the let-downs of those in power.

‘Below Dawn’ marks the second studio album by singer, songwriter and musician. As it traverses sentimental themes, from societal change and untapped emotions, to the profound journey of pregnancy and motherhood, the album exudes an aura of intimacy. This emotional depth is complemented by Bryony’s distinctive harmonious vocals and the infusion of jazz-inspired melodies. ‘Below Dawn’ is a deeply personal and transformative musical journey, the title encapsulates this transition beautifully. “This album speaks about myself just before I gave birth and stepped into a new era, so the name reflects that underlying hidden catalyst” Bryony adds.

The inception of ‘Below Dawn’ coincided with the initial stages of the pandemic, and the early songs reflect the emotional turmoil of those times. These tracks served as a cathartic release for the tensions and frustrations experienced during lockdown. However, as life took a momentous turn with Bryony becoming a mother, the album’s direction shifted. The second half of ‘Below Dawn’ delves into her inner world, exploring emotions and relationships within her new family.