Jared McCloud – Tramp Like Me (self-released)
9 August 2024
It’s a familiar story. A young man begins his music career by playing in a series of rock and metal bands, but after a while he realizes that such a format does not offer him the nuances or subtleties he seeks to express what he wants to say, and does not give him the means to truly express himself. A solo path is, as so often, the answer, and so he has spent a decade and a half Jared McCloud has written songs that not only allow for more sonic expression, but also address the most intimate aspects of his life.
“Tramp Like Me,” from his upcoming album Job offer has all the same trademarks as many of the classic songwriters – the tempo and balance of a relaxed Springsteen Song, the depth and pure honesty of Tom is waiting dark and deep thoughts and the restless spirit and bittersweet romance of Ryan Adams– that’s a lot for a song, especially one that uses space and atmosphere as well as McCloud does here.
And like all good videos, the images help tell the story. They are the images of a man who is trying to make amends throughout his life and explain his thoughts and actions in writing to the people he loves. It reminds us that ultimately, we are who we are. We cannot change our nature and are all subject to the trials and tribulations of human existence. We cannot always control our actions, but we can own them and hopefully be accepted for who we are, good or bad, right or wrong.
A great song, an artistic and expressive video in its own right, and an artist to keep an eye on.
