SINGLE REVIEW: AMY JO - HOLD YOUR HORSES

Hot on the heels of "Hypocrite La Di Da" comes a single as diametrically opposed sound wise as it possibly could be. It also sees all of the positives, that #TEAMw21 drew from those early releases really falling into place with a quite stunning performance, simply Amy Jo and her guitar. It brings both Amy Jo's vocals and lyrics to the forefront, there is simply nowhere to hide, and on each front she comes out winning.

Written for boys who are "going through a tough time" it's a kind of virtual hug in the form of a letter.

School is always an unforgiving place for anyone who dares to step outside the perceived accepted norms, and Amy Jo does a good job in conjuring up just who we might be talking about.

"Boy I know that it's hard right now

The other kids don't get you somehow

You spend your days in the corridor

With your head to the ground

I know you don't like the clothes they wear

I know it feels like life's unfair

And you don't wanna play the sports

That you're told you should care about"

The opening two lines of the chorus each come with significant pauses at the end, before continuing to pass on words of wisdom to a more upbeat tune, painting a more positive possible future .

"But they don't see where you're going

One day when the wind starts blowing

You're going to find that someone who

Loves you just for being you

And if you decide that's not for you

You'll be glad that you stayed true

Who you are when you're young

Ain't all there is - Boy, Hold Your Horses"

There's a slight echo backing vocal on the final three words, like an ethereal whisper and the most minor piece of percussion, just one beat as Amy Jo seeks patience from those receiving the message as things will hopefully get better.

The next verses are also delivered in a sympathetic, realistic manner, that makes you feel that Amy Jo must have had some experience of what she sings, either seeing it play out or knowing someone affected although the song is not dedicated to one person.

"I know you feel misunderstood

They're scoring points on your manhood

And you're pretending that the words don't hurt

So you bury the tears

But nothing stays the same forever

And I know that you're too clever

To believe that it's now or never

You're older than your years"

The end of the second chorus and the bridge makes more use of the percussion which has slowly making its presence felt throughout the verse. It is the closest to any sort of accompaniment on the whole song however for the final chorus it is back to Amy Jo

"The winds will start blowing

and boy you're only growing

The seasons will change"

There is one parting piece of wisdom

"And remember when you're all grown up that kid

Boy Hold your Horses"

The softest of supporting percussion back Amy Jo's oohing on the outro on a single that shows a confidence in both her writing and performing abilities.

When released it will be well worth checking out the accompanying video which has Amy Jo sat on the floor barefoot, in an empty room - it's as stark as the actual record and equally compelling in it own way.

Pre-save link - https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/amyjo2/hold-your-horses-2