Jackie Venson wastes no time reminding us why she’s regarded as one of the best guitarists in Austin with her new single “Til This Pain Goes Away.” She manages to incorporate bluesy guitar chops, catchy vocal melodies, and thought-provoking lyrics into this two and a half minute track. Though Venson has experimented with drum machines and other electric sounds in recent memory, she reverts back to the straightforward, blues-rock sound that helped her emerge onto the scene. She’s more than capable of pushing the bounds of her creativity with new songwriting ideas and mind-bending guitar parts, but she’s also not afraid to strip things down, simply allowing her diverse skill set to shine brightly.
Her guitar playing stems from some of the most iconic guitar players of the past and present, including Buddy Guy, Jimi Hendrix, and Gary Clark Jr. Yet her voice has more of a silky smooth, R&B aura that is reminiscent of Alica Keys, Sade, and Mary J. Blige. Put her voice and guitar abilities together, and you get a distinctive force of musical talent that results in sensational songs, such as “Til This Pain Goes Away.” One thing that always impressed me with Venson is her ability to execute intricate guitar parts while matching the melody with her singing. This Hendrix-esque songwriting tactic is on full display with this single, exemplifying her aptness of being able to play technically challenging parts, without sacrificing emotion and feel.
Additionally, Venson showcases her ability to write poetic and profound lyrics. She speaks about the importance of using her music as an outlet and perhaps, as her only choice to overcome the inherent pain and struggles that are associated with our world today. She writes, “These worries take my breath, my heart is a heavy ache/Don’t know what I’m gon do til this pain goes away/This world don’t cherish truth my spirit’s been mad for days/Don’t know what I’m gon do til this pain goes away.” Though we don’t know positively what’s causing her the pain and anger that she’s singing about, one could interpret these lyrics as being aimed towards the injustice and divisiveness that is plaguing our society currently. But no matter what she endures, she is able to find a semblance of peace within her music. This point is nailed down as the song continues: “There seems no limit for the depth of human hate/Only thing I can do is sing my songs and pray/For I see so much goodness blessings everyday/Please let that ease my heart til this pain goes away.”
To simply point out Venson’s bewildering guitar talent would greatly undermine her singing and writing capabilities. She continues to evolve into a full packaged performer and there’s never any doubt that she possesses an abundance of artistic integrity. Venson has already made a name for herself, but it wouldn’t be surprising at all if she winds up being the face of Texas music in the not too distant future.
-Quinn Donoghue