Track Review: Gasoline // Jo Cooper
If Adele were to have a child with Pink, the chances are Jo Cooper would be it. For approximately a decade, Jo has been working within the music industry with a great deal of success. Featured on numerous playlists, radio stations and music blogs, this Australian singer-songwriter has a growing following across the globe. Renowned for her unique, genuine and moving music, it is clear to see why people would have Jo Cooper on their personal playlists. The latest addition to her well-received discography is the single ‘Gasoline’.
Alright, a quick look at the backstory of ‘Gasoline’. In 2015 Jo was forced into a legal battle with the Owners’ Corporation of her apartment building to overturn a bylaw that banned pets. Several years later, the NSW Court of Appeals ruled in Jo’s favour; however, while the legal battle was won it took a great toll on her mental health. Using music as a catharsis, Jo Cooper threw her emotions into her music with particular focus on her tracks ‘Can You Hear Me’ and ‘Gasoline’.
A bit of an odd tale behind the inspiration of singles, but everything has to come from somewhere and dealing with adult bullying is an important issue. Moving from the softer ‘Can You Hear Me’, ‘Gasoline’ is robust, high-powered and filled with attitude. As with artists like Jessie J, there is a strong sense of independence in the hard-hitting tune. Yet, there is also a soft vulnerability woven into the powerful sonic tapestry.
Gruff with some rougher edges, ‘Gasoline’ is a fiery force of nature. The thing is, as with the melodic vulnerability, Jo Cooper shares her vulnerability in the lyrics. Nodding to individuals who deal with difficult situations where they find themselves stripped of confidence, ‘Gasoline’ has a sense of despair. Yet, the truth behind the song is more empowering than desperate. Jo explains that the events of the past have taught her to never underestimate how so few will stand up for what is right, but water does weaken the fire of rejection. It Is this hopefulness underlying an anxiety-ridden rant that makes people encourages people to learn from the bad and find the good.