Owen Steib makes an impressive entrance with “Jolie,” a debut single that brings the easy charm of ’90s alternative rock into a story with real emotional weight. The New York City singer-songwriter has a clear affection for guitar bands of that era, but what makes this release interesting is how comfortably he works within that sound.
The opening guitar lines are bright and inviting, with acoustic strumming keeping the rhythm moving underneath. As the electric guitars grow fuller, the song takes on a sense of urgency. The three-part vocal harmonies are effective, giving the chorus a lift without making the arrangement feel crowded. There are echoes of the Gin Blossoms and Goo Goo Dolls here, yet Steib’s voice gives the track its own character.
Behind that upbeat sound is a more complicated story. Jolie is a fictional young woman facing difficult circumstances, and Steib reveals her situation through scattered images rather than a straightforward account. That choice makes the lyrics worth returning to. The chorus, meanwhile, offers a simple gesture of comfort.
For me, the best thing about “Jolie” is that its catchy melody never distracts from the feeling behind the words. Steib understands that a good rock song can be enjoyable and thoughtful at once. Produced by Arthur Pingrey, this is a confident first release, and it gives me plenty of reason to look forward to his forthcoming EP.
