London In June possesses the kind of unique, easy-going production charm that readied Frank Ocean for the stratosphere on his debut LP, Channel Orange.
Proving the point, the jaunty, jazzy piano keys that provide the consistent momentum through London In June’s duration feels like a callback to Ocean’s similarly piano-centred Super Rich Kids, albeit here deployed against a more upbeat, optimistic end. Jeremiah’s vocal wraps itself around the music, his subject, and the listener — his desire for long-distance romance contagious.
At the song’s midpoint, Lily Agnes’ vocal provides a counter-point, lyrically and stylistic… her vocal sweet-yet-syrupy, rather than saccharine. It contrasts with the percussive, punctuated flow of Jeremiah’s own performance. As he launches into the ensuing chorus, the song’s production slowly shifts, loosening as additional detail is introduced, like a dream where momentary elements distract its author, the narrative loosened and shifting. The song concludes with a suitably relaxed guitar solo, and the whole song is incredibly accomplished.
Perth/Boorloo-based Jarrod Jeremiah is 21, and he would have been just ten at the point of Channel Orange’s release. Having started on drums at a young age, Jeremiah began to sing, produce and mix his own music. Here sharing production duties with Calvin Bennett, Jeremiah takes his inspiration from the dream of a European summer, and a longing to escape and have a fresh start. Describing the song’s inspiration, Jarrod says:
’London in June is partly inspired by a couple of things, first of all, the hot girl euro summer (which) was taken at the time this song was written. And partly wanting to run away from your problems and bad relationships and start all over again in a city… In fact, I attempted it — after I wrote the track I went to London for 6 weeks and while it was amazing; I learnt that as much as we want to always run away and start afresh, it’s better to face those big problems or relationships that might be a bit complicated.’
Check out London In June below.