As I listen to the new single from JOY SHANNON, “The Spell (feat. Emily Jane White),” the subtle, intricately-woven melodies of her harp and their voices feel like they’re speaking to the depths of my soul. I’m two generations removed from the windy rocks and icy seas of the Hebrides, and this song feels like it stretches far along my lineage to honor the grandmothers who live in my DNA. It’s ethereal but also earthy, history in song, reminding every woman of the spells that live in our bodies (it must be magic, because our bodies are still a mystery today to science and medicine). It’s off her upcoming record An Chailleach (Irish for the crone or elder goddess) that comes out November 1st — pre-order it here. Alongside the songs with Emily Jane White, An Chailleach features so many other awesome collaborations, a haunting collection of songs featuring Osi and the Jupiter, Leila Abdul-Rauf, Jessica Way (Worm Ouroboros), Aerial Ruin, and Kai Uwe Faust of Heilung. I’ve listened to this song on repeat for the past 20 minutes, and it feels healing — hit play on our premiere of “The Spell (feat. Emily Jane White)” below and I hope you feel the same…
Emily and I bonded over the two songs she sings on my album, because they are ones that speak of healing from the wounds historically inflicted upon the feminine. It really meant the world to me that Emily truly understood the intimate meanings behind the songs, and in her wonderful vocal additions, my heart felt so very seen and supported by her talents. I am eternally grateful to Emily for this healing experience of recording with her. And I am so excited to share the songs!
— Joy Shannon
