Ruben Neeson is oozing steeze right here.

Having forged a reputation on the Sydney live scene over the past couple of years as a formidable performer, with the kind of voice that sucks you right in and spits you right out, Inner-West folk-rocker Ruben Neeson has today offered a debut video that is equally as intoxicating and mystifying as his songwriting. Safe to say, it’s definitely been worth the wait.

‘Cut The Branch’ is a brooding ballad backed by forceful playing that feels as if the band are feeling the same pain as Neeson, with the frontman’s heartstrung and raw vocal performance taking centre stage. It’s reminiscent of Nick Cave’s symbiotic relationship with the Bad Seeds, and the addition of Julia Jacklin on backing vocals offers a deliciously juxtaposing dreaminess to Neeson and co.

“’Cut The Branch’ is about cutting something or someone off and not being able to truly let go, in short. I wrote it with a feeling of disgust, aimed primarily at myself, as well as a heightened feeling of loss and longing,” Neeson says. “The way the choruses are delivered, more incessant and spiteful each time is contrasted by Julia’s voice which I think creates a beautiful power balance, especially in the final chorus…”

Directed by Aimee-Lee X Curran, the clip perfectly encapsulates the moody notions of the tune, with Neeson and the subject of his fascination, a girl played by Freyja Benjamin, delivering sultry performances. The lighting, colouring, and grading is fittingly gloomy (and perfect).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NhpMgL86JMM&feature=youtu.be

You won’t want to miss Ruben Neeson and his band performing Tuesday, February 5th at Waywards in Newtown (info here) with support from Caitlin Harnett.