Throughout the past few years, Jean Dawson has built himself up around genre-bending albums, singles that turn pop music on its head, and big-name collaborations, with his upcoming supporting slot on Lil Yachty’s European tour and 2023’s “NO SZNS” featuring SZA marking high points in an already eclectic career. But Dawson’s position as a non-conforming creative makes him stand out among other emerging artists, something he reminds on the latest EP, Boohoo.
Compared to other projects and EPs, including last year’s “DESTRUCTION FOR DUMMIES,” Boohoo finds the Mexican-American artist going back to his childhood spent splitting time between Tijuana and San Diego, with “Divino Desmadre” entirely in Spanish.
Boohoo is a full circle moment for Dawson, connecting his upbringing in Mexico to his fast-growing music career through transcendent alt-rock fitting for an artist constantly ebbing and flowing in every genre.
Of the three tracks off Boohoo, the operatic rock anthem “New Age Crisis” soulfully stretches into multiple segments that never cause whiplash due to Dawson’s self-assured guidance. An ascending and descending piano pattern starts the song on an uplifting note, leading into Dawson’s ethereal vocals that would be right at home among a gospel choir. However, a roaring guitar takes everything in unexpected directions, leveling “New Age Crisis” as Dawson showcases a spectrum of hard-earned confidence.
While Dawson has a handful of songs sung in Spanish, his first language, “Divino Desmadre” is his first to be predominantly in Spanish. It’s also one of his most dynamic vocal performances to date, flowing over the simple electronic keys, which allows the intimate lyrics more clarity and opportunity to hit closer to home. What’s nearly as impressive is how the track evolves, with the instrumental building upon the simple foundation until the climactic rock explosion that matches Dawson’s cries from the void.
ARTISTS YOU SHOULD KNOW
BEST NEW MUSIC
In keeping with his goal to honor his roots, Dawson will perform “Divino Desmadre” and other tracks in Mexico City for the first time at the Ceremonia Music Festival on March 23. But on Boohoo and previous releases, he’s already united the wide scope of music that inspired him when he was young under one distinctive umbrella unique to him as an artist. Given his ability to appeal to fans of varying genres, it’s not a stretch to say he has the potential to expand his audience in a way suitable for someone who does not box themselves in the slightest.
Words: David Sosa
Boohoo by Jean Dawson is out on streaming services. For more on new music and potential shows, follow him on Instagram and his website.
This post may contain affiliate links. Ads and affiliate links are how independent blogs like Grimy Goods can operate. Thank you for supporting our work and being a part of our music community.
