Annika Jayne
Singer-Songwriter // Auteur-Compositeur-Interprète // Liedermacherin
2024
Matt Warren from THE INDIE GRID writes: "Annika Jayne’s latest single is a triumph of artistry and empathy, offering a much-needed dose of hope and comfort in uncertain times. With its sweet melody, poignant lyrics, and soulful vocals, ‘Café Of The Lost Dreams (And The New Horizons)’ will leave a lasting impression on you and further solidify Annika’s reputation as a rising star in the world of songwriting."
Read full review here: https://www.theindiegrid.co.uk/singer-songwriter/cafe-of-the-lost-dreams-and-the-new-horizons-annika-jaynes-musical-beacon-of-hope/
Nicole Mendes from THE OTHER SIDE REVIEWS writes: "Self-recorded at a home studio, then mixed and mastered by Brady Jo, ‘Café Of The Lost Dreams (And The New Horizons)’ draws a raw vulnerability and playful charm through sophisticated production. In its acoustic soundscape, the single’s elegance is mixed with innocence holding you in a warm embrace comforted by Jayne’s delicate hand. Interestingly, as the stark guitar combines with Jayne’s rich, warm vocals in a barebones minimalism there is also a vivid kaleidoscopic sheen highlighting the beauty of simplicity."
Read full review here: https://www.theothersidereviews.com/annika-jayne-cafe-of-the-lost-dreams-and-the-new-horizons-2024/
Jpgchief from LESS THAN 1000 FOLLOWERS BLOG writes: "The café of newfound hope, written in a beautiful and caressing acoustic indie songwriter format, brings forth the menu of comfort foods and a chance to recharge yourself. Warm, cozy and surrounded by familiar comfortable things, the song is keeping things simple with vocals singing thoughtful, poetic lyrics, and the acoustic guitar providing a backdrop that eases the weary mind. In a way, the song is like..."
Read full review here: https://lessthan1000followers.com/2024/04/05/annika-jayne-cafe-of-the-lost-dreams-and-the-new-horizons/
Pedro from PIGION OPINION writes: "Café Of The Lost Dreams (And The New Horizons) wins me over with delicate folk guitar chords that make me look up at the stars as I sit in the town's historic café. Jayne's evening is truly cinematic and helps to put us in an uplifting mood by lifting us out of the sinking sand the more we panic and ridding us of the emptiness with timeless acoustic sounds. Annika is also a captivating narrator who can tell a story of hope with her soft voice, which sounds truly unique! This artist has a knack for words when she sings to us that..."
Read full review here: https://www.pigeonopinion.com/post/artist-interview-annika-jayne
Austin Sher from WE WRITE ABOUT MUSIC writes: "The song's lyrics, penned by Jayne during a period of personal darkness, offer a message of resilience and faith in the face of adversity. Against the backdrop of a world fraught with turmoil and uncertainty, "Café Of The Lost Dreams" serves as a beacon of light, reminding us that even in our darkest moments, there is still beauty and possibility to be found. Musically, the song is beautifully understated, with Jayne's acoustic guitar providing a simple yet elegant backdrop for her expressive vocals. The stripped-back arrangement allows..."
Read full review here: https://www.wewriteaboutmusic.com/reviews/annika-jayne-cafe-of-the-lost-dreams
Dean K. Achea from MUSIC AND ENTERTAINERS writes: "The title itself sparks curiosity, as it portrays a mystical cafe where lost dreams meet new horizons. Annika’s soothing voice and heartfelt lyrics touch on universal themes like longing, faith, and the hope for a brighter future. It’s like diving into a cozy fantasy world, just like in ‘Legends & Lattes’ by Travis Baldree.."
Read full review here: https://musicandentertainers.com/cafe-of-the-lost-dream-and-the-new-horizons-by-annika-jayne/
Bowe from BRAND NEW TRACKS writes: "Her vocals are orbs of musical wonder : simple, resonant, and filled with tender subtext. Words gain new meaning and intimacy when filled with the melody of her voice. Listeners of Nick Drake, Elliot Smith, Joni Mitchell, and John Lennon, and the like are sure to enjoy the bountiful cups of Annika’s music. Her latest release is ‘Café of the Lost Dreams’. Its soundscape is as mystical and romantic as it sounds. Made with just mellow guitar drizzles and undulating vocals, the song falls around us like spring rain. Annika’s misty vocals chase away the sharpness of misery and hopelessness. Her words bring hope and a fresh perspective. It mingles the aroma of coffee and sweetness of chocolate with the taste of a happy life."
Read full review here: https://www.goodmusicradar.com/singer-songwriter/annika-jayne-cafe-of-the-lost-dreams/
Victor Matheus from THE INDIE CLOCK writes: "The moment we are going through in the world is not one of the most challenging and desirable. We live in insecurity, fear of the future due to any wrong decision and we still have environmental problems. With this dark feeling Annika was thinking before thinking of something that could bring peace and comfort. "Café Of The Lost Dreams" has a serene melody, pleasant to hear through the soft playing of the guitar, string by string, in an intimate way, giving us the opportunity to hear the passage of the chords, which is very pleasant. Annika's deep and touching vocals make us float through the clouds.
"Café Of The Lost Dreams" makes us think of a magical and enchanting place, having a coffee in the afternoon, in a cold climate, sitting with someone you love, having that moment of peace and being able to feel comfortable, welcomed and in hope, so that moments like this can happen again. Annika Jayne manages to bring a super captivating folk experience and still lift our emotions and paint something beautiful on our horizons."
Read full review here: https://www.indieoclock.com.br/2024/04/annika-jayne-traz-folk-esperancoso-e.html?m=1
James Kerr from SENOCULAR MEDIA writes: "Her latest release “Café Of The Lost Dreams (And The New Horizons) Acoustic Version” is a relaxing track that blends elements of folk, acoustic, and easy listening. Warm acoustic guitar and comforting vocals combine to create a delicate atmosphere. The artist takes us into a place of wonder and amazement, where the troubles of life can be put aside. The imaginary cafe that Annika describes is a place of comfort that Annika dreamt up from being in a dark spot and finding escape. Annika Jayne’s new single “Café Of The Lost Dreams (And The New Horizons) Acoustic Version” is a wondrous folk hit..."
Read full review here: https://senocularmedia.com/?p=6148
DULAXI writes: "Once the soothing sound of the guitar begins the song, a feeling of peace surrounds the listener, like being hugged by a well-known melody. Annika’s gentle yet determined singing acts as a beacon in navigating the lyrical maze of “Café Of The Lost Dreams (And The New Horizons).” With every stanza, she creates vivid scenes of a magical haven where tired spirits discover comfort in the midst of life’s chaotic waters. As the narrative progresses, the audience is carried to a place where time appears to stop, and the worries of the world dissolve like snowflakes in the cozy hug of spring. The café’s title same as the title of the song, offers a menu of hope, faith, strength, and luck, and symbolizes how kindness can transform challenges. Thanks to Annika’s beautiful poetry skills, the mysterious and kind owner of the café is seen as a symbol of strength, leading lost travelers to new opportunities with her enigmatic presence. In terms of musicality, “Café Of The Lost Dreams (And The New Horizons)” features a precise balance of instruments, where every note is carefully created to create a feeling of..."
Read full review here: https://dulaxi.com/annika-jayne-unveils-cafe-of-the-lost-dreams-and-the-new-horizons-a-musical-journey-discovering-hope-and-kindness/
Gee Nelson from THE INDIE GRID writes: "This Dream Inside My Heart’ begins with delicate acoustic guitar picking, echoing the stylistic essence of revered artists such as Joni Mitchell, Janis Ian, and K.D. Lang’s ‘After The Gold Rush.’ Annika’s vocal delivery, reminiscent of Ani DiFranco, harmonises seamlessly with the song’s poetic lyrics, revealing a depth of emotion and introspection. The track, based on the poetry..."
Read full review here: https://www.theindiegrid.co.uk/singer-songwriter/annika-jaynes-latest-acoustic-masterpiece-this-dream-inside-my-heart/
2023
Mike from LONDON PEAKY writes: "OUT [on October 13th] from the prolific multi-lingual songstress ANNIKA JAYNE, her new single, ‘Peace and Quiet.’ It’s beautiful in its simplicity, and if the art of song making is to merely make the mundane interesting, then ‘Peace & Quiet’ is the only template you’ll ever need....""
Read full review here: https://www.londonpeaky.com/annika-jayne-release-peace-quiet-its-what-we-all-need-right-now/
Matt Warren from THE INDIE GRID writes: "The song’s relaxed and mellow vibe draws listeners in through its compelling and personal style. What sets this piece apart is its bilingual composition, seamlessly sung in a mix of French and English, highlighting Annika’s versatility. In softer moments, her style resonates with echoes of Joni Mitchell, reminiscent of ‘Little Green’ from the ‘Blue’ album. The vocal delivery also draws parallels to Yoko Ono’s warmer and sweeter distinctive stylings, particularly evident during the ‘Double Fantasy’ period. And, additionally, the influence of Suzanne Vega’s ‘Close Up Volume 1-4’ albums may be evident, as Annika’s stripped-down approach adds a vulnerable quality to further enhance the listening experience. The complexity of the composition and the evident crafting suggest..."
Read full review here: https://www.theindiegrid.co.uk/singer-songwriter/annika-jayne-unveils-un-livre-et-un-cafe-single-exclusive-interview/
Steve Harris from FRESH ON THE NET writes: "My French is terrible, but even I can manage to translate Un Livre Et Un Café to “a book and a coffee”, which is pretty much what this song is about — sitting in the garden, sun shining, a book and a coffee being all you need to transport you somewhere else, far, far away (so not vodka and painkillers then — I’ve been doing it wrong!). Sung in a mixture of French and English..."
Read full review here: https://freshonthenet.co.uk/2023/10/faves503/
2021
Claudia Mendes from THE OTHER SIDE REVIEWS writes: "By Your Side’ opens with gentle waves of acoustic guitar before a melancholic harmonica sings against it. There is a soft nostalgia to the tones that makes you think of rainy days as you reminisce about everything that used to be. This feeling is perfectly picked up by the lyrics of the track. The melody is really wonderful as the cello hits when Illes’ vocals come in offering two sides of the story. There are a few layers to the melody that come together for a rich river of memories and emotions long faded. Jayne’s vocals are the first to enter as she sets the scene for the single and fills you with those rainy day emotions that shine in the melody. Her performance has an aching edge as she
Read full review here: https://www.theothersidereviews.com/annika-jayne-and-nathan-peter-illes-by-your-side-2021/
Jpgchief from LESS THAN A 1000 FOLLOWERS writes: "A song about falling in love, departures and things left unspoken, “By Your Side” tells the story of a younger Annika who fell in love with Stéphane, a french gentleman, but sadly, life took them apart as Stéphane had to move away before they could begin to really get together. Full of broken heart and untethered bonds, this song speaks out for those who have love and lost, for all the unfulfilled promises and empty spaces. But don’t let yourself be brought down, as this song..."
Read full review here: https://lessthan1000followers.com/2021/03/25/annika-jayne-nathan-peter-illes-by-your-side/
2020
Nicole Mendes from TURTLE TEMPO writes: "The oldest track from her EP Time To Spread Your Wings, ‘Leaves To Autumn’ is a melodic and moving track. Written several years ago – in fact, it was over 20 years ago – ‘Leaves To Autumn’ is a nostalgic single but questioning whether it is best to leave the past in the past or reignite previous situations. Looking at reflection, introspection and the consequential confusion, the single is moving and quite heartwrenching.The initial version of ‘Leaves In Autumn’ includes Annika’s well-known acoustic guitar-led music, but she decided to create a piano version of the track to enhance the concept sonically. While Annika does not play the instruments in this piano version, her simple and soothing vocals meld well with the easy piano and strings section.Leaves In Autumn’ is a well-arranged single with tranquil overtones and brilliant layering. Annika described the memories as being 'so colourful...'"
Read full review here: https://turtletempo.co.uk/2020/11/05/new-music-annika-jayne-leaves-in-autumn-piano-version/
Claudia Mendes from THE OTHER SIDE REVIEWS writes: "The single was written for everyone who is different and is bullied because of this. It reminds us that we all have a special talent that makes us who we are. If this is what makes us different, there is nothing wrong with that. Using her gentle vocals, Jayne helps you spread your wings and fly to your own tune. The soft guitar opening sets the light tone of ‘The Eagle Flies Alone’. You are then drawn into the address to the girl of the song. There is a haunting and sad tone to this song that causes a well of emotion as you listen. This is enhanced by Jayne’s emotive performance as you hear the pain within her voice. The instruments add to the melancholic tone of the track as they haunt the lower layers of the song. While there is a sadness to the track, there is also a message of hope. Jayne lets you know that you can get over what people say about you and fly above them. In particular..."
Read full review here: https://www.theothersidereviews.com/annika-jayne-the-eagle-flies-alone-2020/
Nicole Mendes from TURTLE TEMPO writes:
"Can you tell us about ‘The Eagle Flies Alone’?
This song is a special one for me and a very personal one as well. It has been written for those who are different and are being bullied because of it. It has been written to remind them that everyone has a special talent and those who appear to be different even more so. This song was inspired by the German movie ‘Beyond Silence’. The movie is about a girl called Lara, who is different from everyone. Her parents are deaf and the family is communicating with each other in sign language. Lara herself can hear and has an extraordinary talent for music – a world into which her parents cannot follow. Because she is so different, she is being bullied. Her music teacher, however, sees her remarkable talent. He becomes her mentor and encourages her to continue her musical journey.
At one point in the movie, it turns out that Lara is the only one who is not invited to her classmate’s birthday party. At this point, her music teacher tells her: 'Don’t be sad, Lara. You know, ravens fly in flocks, but the eagle flies alone.' – meaning that she may be different from the others but will just leave them all behind if she keeps developing her talent and spreads her eagle’s wings. When I heard that sentence I knew I had to write about it."
Read full interview here: https://turtletempo.co.uk/2020/08/17/in-conversation-with-annika-jayne/
Claudia Mendes from THE OTHER SIDE REVIEWS writes: "Praying Hands’ has a very gentle folk opening with only an acoustic guitar. The opening soft melody continues throughout the track giving the song a very soothing tone. The minimalist arrangement accentuates Jaynes vocals and gives the lyrics more impact. Jayne’s vocals are light and unique weaving through the guitar. As with all her music, you can feel the honesty and emotion she infuses in her songs throughout the performance. The lyrics are beautiful and help you imagine a friendship that lasts without people being physically close."
Read full review here: https://www.theothersidereviews.com/annika-jayne-praying-hands-2020/
Gabriele Filippi from NOVA MUSIC BLOG writes: "Embellished by the touch of Nelly Noack’s cello and of Jörg Teichert’s slide guitar, ‘Praying Hands’ is a tender indie folk song infused in a caressing acoustic atmosphere. Here Annika gives an admirable display of the nuances of her vocal performance, finely suffused and nuanced with the graceful arrangement, giving life to a union of music and lyrics of exquisite musicianship. Although the song title contains the word praying, the song has no religious association..."
Read full review here: https://novamusic.blog/annika-jayne-praying-hands/
FVMUSIC BLOG :writes: "The excellent musician Annika Jayne, is back with her thought-provoking latest single ‘Petite Planète’ (Little planet).
A gorgeously picked acoustic guitar opens the single. A solo shaker accompanies it, and this adds instant texture to the piece. We adore the richness in the acoustic guitar which has been produced beautifully. Annika Jayne sings beautifully in French, her voice transcends languages, and we adore the vibrant and inviting tone she emanates.
A luscious cello also appears with the vocals and the two effortlessly dance in harmony with one another. Extra percussion also enters, and...."
Gabriele Filippi from NOVA MUSIC BLOG writes: "As the title suggests, the song is about the catastrophic state our planet is in. Poetically chiseled in a refined, tender and fragile picture imbued with bitter sadness, the words Annika sings are penetrating and go straight to the point from the beginning of the song, when she starts saying that this planet has become a little box and no longer looks pretty. The sense of despair that exudes from the song comes to be inevitable when in the third verse Annika says that if we continue in this way, space will be the coffin of the planet."
Read full review here: https://novamusic.blog/annika-jayne-petite-planete/