Jenny Banai

Armed with a little guitar and a gorgeous, powerful voice, Jenny Banai “wields a magnetic power of like-ability both on and off the stage. With a guitar in her hands, there’s a clear and present energy that overtakes her” (Beatroute). Raised among the green pastures of BC’s Fraser Valley, she is an artist who lives and works in East Vancouver. The contrast is aptly reflected in her work. Banai sets precise, homespun lyrics against vibrant, textured backdrops, pouring her observations and emotions into songs that give voice to the things many of us lack words to say. She’s remained wide-eyed since the release of her sprawling debut, “flowering head” (2015), capturing moments and fashioning her recollections into the remarkable new LP, “couchwalker.” Though it’s tempting to draw comparisons to the heights of Joni Mitchell’s ‘70s output, Banai’s work is unique. Like Joni, her songs aren’t quite easy-listening — they demand your attention.