Jem Doulton releases new album

London-based musician Jem Doulton is no stranger to the diverse world of music and over the years he’s become a staple of the city’s music scene, contributing his talents to multiple projects as well as his endeavours as a solo aritst. Known for his multi-instrumental talents and his role as the drummer in the Thurston Moore Group, Jem’ career spans various bands and genres, including Too Many Things, Pando Pando, Melos Kalpa, Wilkinson/Ward/Doulton and The Oscillation.

His extensive resume also features stints with Dead Days Beyond Help, Fuse Box City, Forebrace and performing for Róisín Murphy of Moloko fame. Since 2014, Jem has been an integral part of The Thurston Moore Group, contributing to multiple singles and albums, including the upcoming “Flow Critical Lucidity.”

First unveiling his solo music project in 2021 with the debut single “The Thingly Thing,” he’s since shared multiple well-received releases that form his impressive catalogue of music. Now bringing us his sophomore full-length record as a solo artist, he brings us the brand new album titled Deal of the Century.

The new album offers the perfect snapshot of Jem’s constantly evolving sonic vision and features a plethora of talented collaborators, including all members of the Thurston Moore Group. The album also includes contributions from musicians like Alex Ward, Luca ‘Zoo’ Franzoni, Kevin Toublant, Hannes Plattmeier and many more.

Deal of the Century is an album that shines with Jem Doulton’s sonic energy and swagger, taking listeners on a sophisticated journey that reflects the caliber of its contributors. The writing covers a range of contexts including playful, political and philosophical themes, showcasing Doulton’s lyrical panache.

Opened by title track “Deal of theCentury,” the album starts with the ominous buzz of a hazy synth as the bold pulse of deep percussive shots set a laid back rhythm, setting up an epic sonic voyage that builds throughout. This spacey synth-driven jam sees Jem artistically dissect the last 15 years in the UK, delivered with a sarcastic edge and accompanied by a trippy video by Thomas Blackburn.

“Svetlana” follows with the intricate flutter of distant synth textures and soft touch of a bass line met with sparse rattles of percussion which eventually settles into a progressive synth rock outing. Built on a mellow groove and shining with a vibrant arrangement of shifting instrumentation, the track serves up a kaleidoscopic listening experience that’s truly immersive and transportive.

Followed by “Don’t Suppose,” the delicate sound of gentle instrumental tones and soft taps of drums are met with Jem’s airy vocal leads. Developing with the lilting sway of bouncy piano notes, bright strings and layered vocals, the song presents a retro power pop style cut with big band jazz moments re-imagined in a way that only Jem Doulton could.

Other highlights on the record include songs like “Snake Oil Salesman” with its shuffling drum beat and grooving bass lines instantly pulling you in before Jem threads his commanding vocal leads above. With a driving art rock aesthetic, it’s yet another display of Jem Doulton’s knack for crafting a truly original sound that’s engaging and enjoyable from start to finish.

“The Whip” offers an expansive journey that cuts elements of trip hop with experimental rock to form an atmospheric and intense soundscape. Full of moody vibes and attitude, the song is full of twists and turns that keeps the listener on their toes via an arrangement that’s constantly throwing up surprises.

Closing the record with “Into The Jetstream,” graceful piano tones underpin Jem’s elegant vocals before the track morphs into an uptempo avant-garde rock outing to offer the perfect conclusion to Jem Doulton’s sensational new album. Across the eight tracks on Deal of the Century, Jem Doulton serves up an astonishingly varied release tied together by the distinct thread of his voice, resulting in an album that’s as diverse as it is entertaining.

Listen to Deal of the Century below