Emerging from the vibrant and eclectic music scene of Melbourne, Australia, Bollard has carved out a distinct niche since their inception in 2018. The band, composed of Tom Walsh, Ju Shung (Raindogs), Luke Scott (Highschool, Raindogs), Benton Ching, Marni Walsh, Declan Moran, and Wes Faulkner, blends post-punk, shoegaze, and art rock into a sound that is both chaotic and introspective. Their debut album, “Trawlers” (2017), garnered local acclaim, described by Hysteria Magazine as a “bewildering release” and a “mutant child of shoegaze, rock, indie and jazz.” Trouble Juice praised it as “a chaotic and wild introduction to an exciting band,” setting the stage for Bollard’s continued evolution.
In 2018, their “Beware the Atto Fox” EP took their garage roots toward a more introspective sound, further solidifying their unique sonic identity. 2023 saw Bollard gaining international recognition with “Interview with a Doll,” featured on the cult German label Public Possession’s Chill Pill compilation, and their second full-length album, “Lo.” This album, two years in the making, distilled the sprawling influences of their previous works into a concise and measured creation, distinctly recognizable as Bollard.
As 2024 unfolds, Bollard continues to push creative boundaries with their new EP “I Was Wide Open,” set for release in the middle of the year, alongside the development of a new full-length album. Their latest single, “Jacob The Liar,” released on June 3rd, 2024, from their upcoming EP, encapsulates the band’s melodic and meditative essence, accompanied by visually stunning and thought-provoking music video.
When I sat down to listen to Bollard’s most recent music video, “Jacob The Liar,” which was released on June 3rd, 2024, I was immediately drawn in by its calming, introspective tune. Australian band Bollard has always been good at making music that sticks with you. They blend aspects of art rock, shoegaze, and post-punk to create a sound of their own. With a masterful blend of soothing and thought-provoking soft rock, “Jacob The Liar” continues this legacy.
The soft strings of what seems like an acoustic guitar open the song, creating a calm and reflective atmosphere. With the addition of the bass’s rhythmic flow and the hip-hop beat, the song’s initial simplicity eventually transforms into a deeper one. I was immediately drawn in by the lead singer’s graceful and sensitive voice as she entered the fray and carried the lyrics. The vocals are performed in a way that is incredibly touching; every word seems to be filled with intention and reflection.
As “Jacob The Liar” goes on, I find myself being amazed at how the music manages to keep a steady beat and tune while still changing. The track has layers of depth and emotion added by the intermittently appearing gentle backing vocals, which give it an intimate yet wide sense. The piano’s soft lacing adds even further to this mood, resulting in a progressive soft rock sound that is easygoing and downtempo. It’s a song that beckons you to pause, think about the complexities of its story, and let yourself sink into its calming embrace.
The single “Jacob The Liar” is enhanced by its quiet and meditative tone in the music video, which is an ideal visual accompaniment. A close-up of an elderly guy standing in the dark with balloons all around him opens the film. I’m drawn into the story right away by this image because it’s both fascinating and eerie. I couldn’t help but be excited for what would happen next as the song starts to take effect and the camera gradually pans back to show more of the man’s surroundings.
The scene changes to a younger, suit-clad man sitting on his bed at 0:20 in the film. Although this change is smooth, it adds another level of complication to the story. The images allude to a possible relationship between the two men—that is, that they are the same person leading two different lives, one real and the other fake. The video’s intriguing dualistic theme and suspenseful editing evoke a sense of mystery and intrigue that is consistent with the song’s lyrical content.
The two characters’ interactions become increasingly evident as the video goes on. The narrative is made more intricate and nuanced with each frame that interweaves the scenes of the young and old men. Two distinct lives appear to be being shown to us, one based on truth and the other on fiction. The graphics complement the song’s examination of truth and identity, which is a brilliant representation of this dichotomy.
The moment when the two protagonists eventually face off is the video’s climax. In a potent visual metaphor for facing one’s own lies, they revolve around one another with their eyes locked. As the narrative threads weaved throughout the song and the video come to a head, this moment is both tense and cathartic. The song’s themes are sharply brought into perspective by this reckoning, or moment of truth.
“Jacob The Liar” is proof of Bollard’s capacity to produce artistically rich and profoundly moving music and images. The video’s thought-provoking story and the song’s reflective, peaceful vibe create an unforgettable experience that lingers long after the last notes have gone. This song challenges you to go farther, investigate identity and truth-related subjects, and consider your own life.
“Jacob The Liar” is essential listening for those looking for music that not only makes them laugh, but also connects with them on a deeper emotional and intellectual level. Bollard is a band to keep an eye on because of their persistent development and dedication to stretching the limits of their sound. With its mellow and contemplative quality, this new song is a lovely addition to their ever-expanding discography, and I’m forward to hear what they create next.
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