Jerk by Laughing Cats is an exceptional blend of nostalgia, atmosphere, and vulnerability, embodying a bold sonic vision crafted by Lauren Schiff and Tony Fredianelli. The duo, Fredianelli’s rock pedigree shaped in Third Eye Blind and Schiff’s background in theatre, combines deeply immersive storytelling with a cinematic soundscape that recalls the timeless allure of ’80s and ’90s music while carrying a modern, relatable message.
The track, a highlight of their upcoming debut album Funny Money, is part of a waterfall release schedule, a release style that brings new life to the album experience by offering a fresh single every few weeks. This approach feels especially fitting for Laughing Cats, allowing us to savour each song as an individual story, building connection with their unique sound and message over time.
Jerk kicks off with an ’80s-inspired musical palette that echoes bands like New Order and Tears for Fears, eventually incorporating glitched effects and warm, reverberating synths with Fredianelli’s skilful guitar work. The production balances rich atmosphere with precision, supporting Schiff’s haunting, emotive vocals. Her voice cuts through the track like a bittersweet confession, and you can feel the depth of the narrative she weaves. She sings of human fallibility and the courage it takes to admit one’s mistakes, a powerful theme that feels intimate yet universal. This honesty brings a strong emotional quotient, inviting listeners to recognize their own struggles with self-reflection and accountability.
The track’s subject matter is timeless: it explores the need for self-improvement and humility within relationships, inspired by Schiff’s observation of a man struggling to make amends with his wife. It’s a concept that resonates across time and context, as we’ve all been in situations where we need to look inward and confront our own faults. Through Jerk, Laughing Cats encourage us to embrace vulnerability and the strength found in owning up to one’s shortcomings. It’s rare to hear a song that so openly turns blame inwards, challenging societal norms where fault is often projected outward. This self-reckoning not only fosters healthier relationships but also deeper self-awareness – a crucial aspect of personal growth.
Jerk combines vintage aesthetics with a message that’s both contemplative and refreshingly candid, making it ideal for cinematic placement. The song’s ambiance transports listeners to a space of reflection, and its contemplative tone would fit seamlessly into films or shows exploring themes of love, redemption, or personal transformation. Fredianelli’s guitar riffs provide the song with a grounded, soulful feel, while the glitches and subtle electronic flourishes lend a modern edge, adding layers of complexity and texture.
With Laughing Cats’ clear influences from music’s golden ages of the ‘60s, ‘80s, and early ‘90s, the duo pays homage to a lineage of innovative musicians while bringing their own fresh twist. Tony Fredianelli’s guitar work evokes both nostalgia and innovation, connecting past and present in a way that feels authentic and accessible. Schiff’s voice and lyrics, inspired by her background in acting and storytelling, possess a rawness that invites introspection and empathy.
Overall, Jerk is an anthem of self-betterment and the empowering realization that growth often begins with admitting where we’ve gone wrong. Laughing Cats invite us to embark on this emotional journey, one track at a time, with the promise of more stories and self-discoveries to come. With Funny Money, Schiff and Fredianelli have positioned themselves as artists with a deep sense of purpose and artistry, ones to watch for both their talent and thought-provoking, human-centred narratives. We have added Jerk to our New Music Spotlight playlist, and our TIMELESS playlist, whilst we continue to stream their debut single, GYB!