WRITTEN BY CHERRYLLE URBANO
When I say I can’t pick a favorite, I truly mean it. Jonah Kagen’s newest EP, Black Dress, which includes four tracks and two alternative versions, transported me into a vivid, cinematic world. Listening to it felt like wandering through a forest, witnessing a story unfold right before me. It’s the perfect blend of dark, mysterious indie-folk—an essential addition to any chill playlist.
As Kagen says in his press release, "This EP is the first part of a project that represents a full snapshot of my emotional experience at this moment in my life. In writing all of these songs, I wanted to focus on making them feel inherently present, not reflective or apprehensive."
The EP features the tracks “God Needs The Devil,” “Don’t You Give Up On Me Yet,” “Matches,” and “Same Wind,” with alternative versions of “Matches” and “God Needs The Devil.” The opening track, “God Needs The Devil,” is mesmerizing—a hauntingly beautiful story about a woman who tempts the subject to follow her, playing the "Devil" in the process. The lyricism is stunning, weaving a tale that is both deeply symbolic and emotionally stirring. The chorus, in particular, gave me goosebumps. It’s impossible not to feel the desperation and longing in the subject's search for the love the woman offers. The alternative version brings an even deeper sense of intimacy, allowing Kagen’s raw emotion to shine through. His voice, laden with desperation and vulnerability, takes center stage, pulling you in. The band’s performance is flawless, matching the tone of the lyrics beautifully, and Kagen’s voice melts seamlessly into the instrumentation.
Next is “Don’t You Give Up On Me Yet,” a track that had me in tears. There’s an undeniable sincerity in Kagen's voice here—hopeful, yet full of emotional weight. It’s the perfect song to unwind to after finals, or any stressful period, before the calm of the holidays sets in. The song’s cinematic qualities come alive, evoking images of a character running away, unsure of the destination but determined to keep moving forward. Similarly, “Same Wind” tugs at the heartstrings with its emotional depth, evoking the same gut-wrenching feeling as “Don’t You Give Up On Me Yet.”
“Matches” offers another haunting experience. The song feels like it’s set in the fog, with its melancholy atmosphere perfectly encapsulating the concept of destruction. The imagery of a cigarette not turning your lungs to ashes, but a match having the potential to burn down a city, carries such a powerful metaphor. The alternative version is even more emotionally raw. You can hear Kagen’s voice break, conveying an even greater sense of vulnerability.
Overall, Kagen’s voice is nothing short of beautiful, and the storytelling in his songs is masterful. I’m captivated by the symbolism woven throughout and the distinct sound he has created. I screamed and cried through every song, feeling his every intention in each note and word. He’s not just a singer; he’s a talented wordsmith and artist. Please, everyone—do yourself a favor and listen to him. I’d pay to sit next to him as he plays his guitar, watching over the valley, lost in the magic of his music.