Jesika von Rabbit’s "Bunnywood Babylon": A Deep Dive into Love, Loss, and Musical Exploration
Desert music sensation Jesika von Rabbit is beckoning listeners to embark on an enchanting journey into her latest album, "Bunnywood Babylon," released on June 13. Known as “The Queen of the High Desert,” von Rabbit has masterfully blended her artistic experiences into this deeply personal project. With themes of self-reflection intertwined with experiences of love and loss, this album invites fans to explore both the complexity of her life and the colorful tapestry of the world surrounding her.
Through her years of artistry, von Rabbit rose to fame fronting the indie band Gram Rabbit, based in Joshua Tree. With "Bunnywood Babylon," she ventures into new territory, promising a genre-blending mix of electronic and Americana music. The artist emphasizes this eclectic fusion and describes her concerts as akin to an "Alice in Wonderland adventure," offering an intriguing blend of whimsicality and introspection. On June 20, von Rabbit will perform at the Redwood Bar in downtown Los Angeles, introducing fans to the captivating sounds of her third solo album.
"Recorded in the tranquility of The Rabbit Ranch in Joshua Tree and mixed at Royal Triton Studios in Silver Lake, this 11-track album is a labor of love that pulls inspiration from her surroundings, including the majestic desert landscape and her cherished late cat," she explains. The result is a well-crafted soundscape where each track presents a unique facet of her experiences, ranging from joyful to poignant. This artistic choice offers listeners an intimate glimpse into von Rabbit’s life, sculptures of sound that reflect her emotional journey.
"Complicated" is how von Rabbit describes the sentiments captured in the new album. "It reveals my struggle between self-deprecating thoughts and a sense of empowerment," she reflects. Notably, this album has a rustic edge, with von Rabbit dubbing it as “electrona-Americana,” a genre she feels encapsulates her sound evolution. "Compared to my past records, this one leans heavier into Americana, a testament to my growth as an artist."
The album’s opening track, “Pretty Dum,” sets the tone with a lighthearted yet introspective message. “It’s a playful self-examination," she shares, highlighting themes of aging and self-acceptance while inviting listeners to embrace life’s imperfections. The vibrant electro-rock second single, “I’ve Gotta Keep My Buzz Going,” pays homage to her late feline companion Buzz, infusing a sense of nostalgia and humor into the mix, inviting listeners to celebrate life despite its inevitable challenges.
Tracks like “What is Your Ism?” offer a politically charged exploration of identity. "This song is a majestic, synth-laden anthem that navigates through the myriad of ‘isms’ that define today’s society," explains von Rabbit, tapping into the zeitgeist with her thoughtful lyrics. Additionally, von Rabbit surprises by venturing into unexpected genres with "Surf Music," a track that defies its title, featuring trance-like electronic beats instead. “This tune encapsulates the creative liberties I’ve taken with this album,” she adds.
The closing track, “Desert Rain,” serves as a poignant endnote, mirroring the reflective tone established in “Pretty Dum.” It encapsulates her journey, exploring her past, present, and future with vulnerability and grace. "This song seamlessly wraps up the album’s narrative," she asserts, highlighting a message of hope and reflection that resonates with listeners.
Join Jesika von Rabbit Live
Don’t miss the chance to experience the magic of Jesika von Rabbit live on June 20 at the Redwood Bar, located at 316 W. 2nd St., Los Angeles. Tickets are available for $10, and for more details visit theredwoodbar.com. With "Bunnywood Babylon," von Rabbit invites you to journey through her artistic lens as she navigates the complexities of life through enchanting music.
