Remember Jack Alsopp, a.k.a. Just Jack? He’s a master in combining laid-back beats with smart lyrics, which he delivers in a way he calls ‘nature rap’. His 2007 breakthrough single Starz In Their Eyes is still one of my all-time favourite summery songs. But also check tracks like Writer’s Block, Embers and Doctor Doctor for a great introduction.

Now, Just Jack is back with a brand-new single. Long Grass has been a long time coming. “Various versions of this have been knocking around for years”, he says on Facebook. Apparently, these versions didn’t feel quite right. The current release however, co-written and produced by The Easy Access Orchestra, does. Ralph Lamb and Andrew Ross (The Easy Access Orchestra) worked with acts like The Herbaliser and Roots Manuva before.

Long Grass features additional vocals by Melissa Jo Heathcote from post-punk band The Trudy.

For more great new music, follow the constantly updated Carte Blanche Music playlist.

Werner Schlosser

Music industry watcher and journalist. Worked at a CD club, a record store chain and was editor in chief of an entertainment trade magazine. Has been in the radio business since 1987, producing and presenting shows. Was music director of several stations. Also, he developed the European Border Breakers Chart, Music Moves Europe Talent Chart and ESNS Chart.