Molly Jenson’s version of Joan Osborne’s hit single ‘One of Us’ is a haunting piece of music that remains with you long after listening. Quite different from the Osborne original, The Californian singer-songwriter makes the song her own, infusing it with her ethereal style. Jenson sings like an angel, which is fitting given the nature of the questions posed: “If God had a name, what would it be?” and “What if God was one of us? // Just a slob like one of us // Just a stranger on the bus trying to make his way home?” The slowly building sonic layers and heartbeat percussion create an engaging tension and sense of drama. The accompanying video by Tony Mancuso adds to the feeling of something greater, just beyond the limits of our perception. It’s beautifully shot.
Molly Jenson has waited a long time to put out the follow-up to her debut album, ‘Maybe Tomorrow’, which was originally released independently in 2005 and then re-released in 2009. During the intervening years, Jenson wrote and sang for the music project ‘For the Sender’ and also worked with Sam Outlaw, providing backing vocals and guitar throughout several years of touring together. Finally, she’s returned to the studio to record her own material and Jenson’s second album, ‘Goodbye’, is due for release on 20th August. It’s theme is the idea of saying goodbye and parting with the aspects of your life and the relationships that hold you back and limit you. As on her debut, she has teamed up with Greg Laswell to put together a set of sensitive, thoughtful songs that are well-worth checking out. In the meantime, lose yourself in the absorbing ‘One of Us’.
