There are no ‘Bad Parts’ in Jack Boyd’s Debut EP - an Interview.
Written by Laury Verdoux
Interview by Sarah Evangelista
Singer-songwriter Jack Boyd kicks 2024 off with the release of his debut EP, Bad Parts. This musical journey takes us through four distinctive tracks, each resonating with indie vibes that effortlessly capture Jack Boyd's emotional vocals, introspective lyrics and soft soundscape that tug at the heartstrings.
The EP opens with the song "Bad Parts", a blend of acoustic guitar and 90’s breakbeat drums. Boyd's raw vocals pierce through the layers of sound, delivering lyrics that reflect the struggles of being a hyper-empath and his desire to go back to his roots.
In stark contrast, the next track "Steep" takes us on a musical detour with its synth-infused elements and effects on Boyd's vocals. Here, he offers us a glimpse into the struggle of understanding and supporting those battling mental health issues—a theme that hits close to home for Boyd himself. Through haunting melodies and introspective lyrics, "Steep" invites us to confront our own emotions and empathize with the experiences of others.
"Pisces 2" shifts gears yet again, enveloping us in a dreamy soundscape. With harmonies that linger in the background like a gentle breeze, this track creates the perfect ambiance for quiet introspection or a tranquil evening at home.
Rounding out the EP is "Downhill", a fresh addition that embodies the quintessential indie-pop vibes tailor-made for a road trip adventure. Infused with infectious melodies and energy, this track showcases Jack Boyd's knack for creating catchy hooks and irresistible grooves.
What is your fondest musical memory, and how do you feel it shaped the artist you are today?
I think my fondest memory was when I got my first drum set at the age of 3. I played it so much that I broke the snare drum and eventually had to move up to a “real” drum set. In those early years and still to this day, the fact that I can go into my own world while making music - that was really what made me fall in love with it.
Your debut EP is an incredible introduction to you as an artist, and will definitely be on repeat. They're all written, recorded, and produced by yourself... When you get stuck on a song, what do you do to give your creative mind a break?
Thank you for the kind words! I struggled for a long time with not finishing ideas or getting stuck on songs. That creative block started to really annoy me so eventually I just forced myself to finish things no matter what. After doing that for a long time I’ve gotten to the point where I usually don’t start something without the intention of finishing it that day.
In an interview with Luna Collective, you mentioned that "all of the songs feel like a friend group made up of a bunch of different types of people". If you had to associate each song off the EP as a friend group member, what would they be?
I love this question! I think to start, “Pisces 2” would be the friend who is constantly having relationship issues. “Downhill” would be the friend who romanticizes everything. “Bad Parts” is definitely the emo friend, probably dealing with relationship problems as well. And “Steep” I think would be the more optimistic and bubbly friend!
What is a goal you want to accomplish this year?
One goal that I’d like to accomplish this year is to make better music than I did last year!
Who are your favourite artists/bands at the moment?
Lately I’ve been kind of reminiscing on music from different points in my life… recently that’s been Andy Shauf, Kendrick Lamar, Happyness, Phoenix, and DIIV