There are many creative artists in the world. Some create beautiful pictures, while others prefer to represent their thoughts and dreams through the power of music. Forest Claudette falls into the latter. They use their own experiences as a non-binary individual to explore the deep expanses of gender identity and sexuality.
Having grown up in the low mountain ranges of the Dandenong Ranges in Australia helped Claudette to develop their sound and style. After honing their craft at an alternative high school, a breakthrough came when their song was played on a local radio station following a school music contest. This led to a record deal and subsequent collaborations with renowned artists, propelling Claudette’s meteoric rise in the US music scene. Their talent was recognized with two ARIA awards last year, solidifying their position as a leading figure in the Australian soul and R&B scene.
Claudette’s latest offering, the combined EP “Jupiter & Stone Between,” is a sonic odyssey that invites listeners to explore the depths of their musical universe. This combined EP, merging two critically acclaimed 2024 releases, offers a captivating journey of self-discovery and soulful expression. “Jupiter” delves into themes of identity, growth, and empowerment, while “& Stone Between” completes the narrative with a trio of boundary-pushing R&B tracks about love and life. The EP’s standout track, “Big Wigs,” serves as a bridge between the two worlds, featuring infectious guitar riffs and a rhythmic flow that seamlessly connects the diverse musical elements.
Taking a look at the “Jupiter” side the most interesting highlights are the intro song “Kobe Beef” where we’re immediately inserted into Claudette’s quintessential R&B style. “Only Human” is a throwback to 90s R&B, dealing with themes of longing and belonging. The infectious chorus and Claudette’s vocal work are the stars of the show. And “Big Wigs,” the featured song on the EP, with its funky rhythm and fierce lyrics. This one is accompanied by a music video using cutting-edge volumetric technology from Arcturus, offering fans an immersive 360-degree viewing experience.
Claudette took a more traditional approach with “Jupiter” taking a lot of cues from 90s R&B, however going to the other side of the coin with “& Stone Between” we are greeted with a more modern take on the genre. “Moonlight” is the perfect representation of what a great song should be. Catchy chorus, powerful lyrics, and amazing vocal work, this is definitely going to become the favorite for many. “2AM” embraces the soul of funk, an anthemic track like no other, and “Press On Me” showcases Claudette’s versatility, switching between smooth and upbeat tempos with ease. “Jupiter & Stone Between” is a cohesive piece of art and with each track, Claudette brings something unique to the table. There’s something here for everyone, either fans of classic or modern R&B.
“‘Jupiter & Stone Between’ is my first two-part conceptual project. It holds my most personal work to date and I think because of that I felt a new kind of standard set for myself when it came to the songwriting and sonic landscape.
Jupiter refers to the songs speaking to my experience of discovering that I am non-binary. The idea being that if men are from Mars and women are from Venus, then I could be from Jupiter (and so could all the gender non-conforming babies).
The ‘stones between’ you and whatever you feel is your greater destiny or journey of self-discovery, come in all shapes and sizes, and rarely when you think you’re ready for them. My experience of this was love and finally having the courage to hold the whole of my sexuality.” says Forest.
“Jupiter & Stone Between” is a masterpiece. Forest Claudette is breaking the barriers and has delivered a piece of work that will fascinate everyone. Each song is a deep exploration of intricate themes that will resonate with listeners. All in all, “Jupiter & Stone Between” is a work of art that everyone should take the time to listen to and appreciate.
Photos/ Lissyelle Laricchia
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