Jacob Alon might have been a doctor, were it not for the “c*** of a cardiologist” who chose to humiliate them in front of their classmates. Yet the Scottish musician, 24, is still deeply invested in matters of the heart. Having released just two songs so far, already they have demonstrated a gift for examining love through a queer lens. As a writer, Alon is fearless – their songs like sacred hymns, washing away shame and self-loathing by confronting those feelings head on. As a singer, they are extraordinary – in possession of one of the most remarkable voices of their generation.
It was only last November when Alon performed their debut single “Fairy in a Bottle” on Later… With Jools Holland, barefoot and adorned in golden feathers and a scarlet cowl. With their tumble of dark curls and glitter-dusted cheeks, Alon brought to mind some fantastical creature of Arthur Rackham’s imagination. When they sing, it’s with a voice redolent of Jeff Buckley or Big Thief’s Adrianne Lenker, soaring from a chest-deep croon into a piercing cry.
