Project Description
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“SON CALLED MOON”
by ARI JACOB
Album Review
(31st July, 2024)
Review by Audrey Songvilay
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Step into a universe where your spiritual senses are empowered and everything feels much more intimate than your physical surroundings – and you’ll be welcomed to “Son Called Moon” by Ari Jacob.
In his search for truth, Melbourne-based artist Ari Jacob embarked on a six-year journey to create this original musical. The story follows Moon and Ari’s complex relationship with Sun, taking a surprising turn when Moon consumes forbidden fruit. Premiering in early June at Chapel off Chapel, this production featured a six-person cast, an eight-piece band, and nearly sold-out performances.
Call Me Moon
The album opens with “Call Me Moon,” with passages voiced by Ari Jacob’s sister, Tali Wenig, who was diagnosed with ASD in 2002. This introduction sets the narrative of what’s to come. As Tali speaks, “I reach out my hand, and it slips away,” we are drawn into the delicate balance of longing and the ephemeral nature of moments in time. Each word is felt deeply. The instrumental backdrop complements this beautifully, with soft, atmospheric synths and gentle piano notes that create a sense of serenity and introspection. It feels like an ethereal dreamscape. We’re invited to notice the breathing world around us, encouraging mindfulness and reflection. Alongside Tali’s voice, the soundscape is both calming and haunting, perfectly capturing the poignant themes of fleeting moments and the desire for connection.
Ceiling Fans
Transitioning seamlessly, “Ceiling Fans” builds on the foundations laid by the opening track. This song resonates with the disconnection often felt in urban life. “Nobody here in this city ever says what they mean,” captures the frustration of unspoken truths and hidden emotions. The melody weaves through the listener’s consciousness, amplifying the theme of isolation within a crowded city. The instrumentals feature a subtle yet poignant combination of soft guitar strums and ambient background sounds. There is a strong sense longing and hope – a desire to be liberated.
The need to escape and the urge for authenticity.
The song is a poignant reminder of the importance of genuine communication in our lives, urging us to seek meaningful connections amidst the noise and chaos of city life or life itself.
Evaporate
“Evaporate” delves deeper into the themes of transience and the fleeting nature of existence. The haunting lyrics, “In the end, we all just evaporate,” are set against a backdrop of music that ebbs and flows like the tides. This song evokes a sense of melancholy acceptance, urging us to embrace the impermanence of life. The instrumental arrangement, featuring a blend of soft strings and ambient sounds, creates a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere that mirrors the lyrical content. The inevitable rise and fall of life’s moments, make this track a reflective piece that resonates with anyone who has grappled with the concept of change and loss. The gentle, yet persistent rhythm serves as a reminder of the continuous passage of time, encouraging us to find peace in the transient nature of existence.
Everlove
The mood shifts slightly with “Everlove,” offering a beacon of hope and enduring connection. This track is a soothing balm, its melody gentle yet uplifting. The lyrics, “In the heart’s quiet whisper, love remains,” speak to the timeless and unbreakable nature of true love. The instrumental layers of acoustic guitar and soft percussion create a warm, comforting sound that envelops the listener. Amidst the chaos and transience of life, we are once reminded that love endures. In doing so, there is solace and continuity. Ari’s harmonious blend of vocals and instruments enhances the emotional impact, making “Everlove” a standout track that inspires a sense of hope and reassurance. Ari used his grandmother, Vivienne’s voice on top of it. “To wander” could be heard clearly, even in a crowded room. It’s a tender tribute to the enduring power of love, offering a moment of calm and reflection within the album’s narrative.
Feel It Coming
“Feel It Coming” introduces a sense of anticipation and inevitability. There’s tension in the rhythm of the song to convey an approaching change. “The storm is near, I can feel it coming,” fills the atmosphere with a sense of anxiety. The pulsating drums and edgy guitar riffs, inject energy and momentum into the album. This track propels the story forward, heightening our sense of engagement. The build-up in the music mirrors the lyrical theme of impending change, creating a powerful auditory experience that keeps us on the edge of our seats. “Feel It Coming” is a high-energy track that adds a sense of urgency and movement to the album, perfectly capturing the emotional turmoil and excitement of facing the unknown.
For Free
With “For Free,” the album explores themes of value and self-worth. The poignant lyrics, “I gave my heart for free, but no one sees,” convey a deep sense of vulnerability and the often unappreciated sacrifices we make. The melody is melancholy and it underscores the emotional weight of the song. Delicate piano chords can be heard in the background and soft string arrangements enhance its introspective tone. The instrumental backdrop is subtle yet powerful, allowing Ari’s raw emotion when singing each word to shine through. This track captures the pain of giving without recognition and the silent struggles many endure. It’s a touching and relatable exploration of the human condition, resonating with anyone who has ever felt overlooked or undervalued. This track is a deeply moving piece that lingers in our mind.
Permission
“Permission” is a powerful anthem of autonomy and self-empowerment. The assertive lyrics, “I don’t need your permission to be who I am,” resonate with a defiant spirit, celebrating the journey towards self-acceptance and independence. The track has an upbeat tempo and bold tone. It’s a stark contrast to the nature of the previous songs. “Permission” injects a sense of strength into the narrative. You can hear the driving beats, energetic guitar riffs and effective backing vocals. The melody inspires us to embrace our true selves without seeking validation from others. It’s a celebration of independence and self-affirmation, encouraging a bold declaration of personal freedom and identity. Too often, many people struggle with this. Let this song be your empowering anthem.
Prologue (Daniel)
The album concludes with “Prologue (Daniel),” a reflective and meditative piece that ties the narrative together. “In the beginning, there was only light,” brings the story full circle, offering a sense of completion and resolution. The serene track is characterised by gentle piano melodies and ambient soundscapes that create a peaceful atmosphere. The minimalistic instrumentation allows the profound lyrics to have its own moment where we can finally feel at peace. At best, we are able to contemplate the emotional journey of the album. The tranquil sound and thoughtful lyrics provide a perfect ending, reminding us of the cyclical nature of life and the importance of finding inner calm and understanding. “Prologue (Daniel)” serves as a poignant closure, leaving a lasting impression of serenity and introspection.
“Son Called Moon” is an immersive experience that takes us on a journey through sound and story. There is a strong emotional depth that shines through each track, creating a rich tapestry of introspection, emotion, and narrative. Son Called Moon have been invited to perform another season in Sydney, in September 2025 and audiences mustn’t miss it.
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Follow ARI JACOB
Website – Facebook – Instagram – Spotify
Follow SON CALLED MOON
Instagram – Spotify
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ARI JACOB Bio:
Ari Jacob is a Melbourne-based singer, songwriter, pianist and creative. After completing a Bachelor’s of Music in Jazz Composition at Monash University and releasing his debut EP “Sink Without Drowning”, Ari moved to Israel in 2017 to broaden his spiritual and artistic horizons. There he went on a journey of healing and growth through meditation and yoga, Kabbalah and plant medicines, but mostly a lot of music. Ari was the in-house composer for internationally acclaimed podcast “Israel Story” with which he toured the US three times as the musical director of their live show. Ari then formed the band “Shayari” with Israeli violinist and singer-songwriter Shay Perry – together they played over 100 concerts in 2019 and recorded their debut album “Economy of Heart”. In the years that followed Ari created music for dance, film, theatre, and produced albums for emerging Israeli artists in Tel Aviv and Berlin, alongside his original album releases, “As/Is, “Live in Jaffa” and other singles.
During these years Ari chipped away at his life-long dream; to create an original musical. For 6 years Ari wrote over 25 songs and 4 scripts for “Son Called Moon”, including workshops, concerts, recordings, and grant applications. In 2023 Ari ran a Headstart campaign to fund the recording of a collection of new songs, written in open D tuning on guitar. This became the music for the story of Moon (to be played by Ari) and his relationship with Sun, the ever-present feminine, which takes a surprising turn when Moon eats from a forbidden fruit. Ari then began planning the stage production.The album was released in early June, whilst the first single “Feel it Coming” came out in April. Just a few months ago in June 2024, Son Called Moon premiered at Chapel off Chapel for 4 performances, with a 6-person cast, 8-piece band, and an almost sold out season. Son Called Moon has been invited to perform another season in Sydney, in September 2025.
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Press Release 22nd July 2024 (below) HERE
“SON CALLED MOON”
by ARI JACOB
The all-embracing
concept album & musical
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