Forest Claudette
Hailing from the Dandenong Ranges in Victoria, Australia, Forest Claudette is an unexpected musical force. Their sound blends soulful tunes with deep, thoughtful lyrics, diving into topics like identity, love, and personal growth. Proudly embracing their non-binary identity, Claudette offers a welcoming space for listeners to think about their own paths of self-discovery. With standout projects like ‘Everything Was Green’ and their latest double EP ‘Jupiter & Stone Between’, they present a fresh perspective on individuality, empathy, and the connections we all share.
‘Jupiter & Stone Between’ is all about celebrating growth and finding yourself. The four tracks on ‘Jupiter’ – the first part of the EP – are all about empowerment and embracing your true self, while ‘& Stone Between’ dives into the complexities of love and the challenges of life. It shows that even after you figure yourself out, the world outside can be unpredictable—sometimes it cares, but often it doesn’t. Together, these two parts create a fascinating story that feels cyclical, reflecting how life often works: you might have to learn the same lesson repeatedly, and mastering it can be a lifelong journey.
Opening the project, ‘Jupiter’ focuses on building a welcoming environment for non-binary individuals, with Claudette describing it as a home where everyone can find acceptance and love. It serves as a strong reminder that, even in difficult times, there’s a space where you genuinely fit in. This idea is woven throughout the whole project, aiming to encourage meaningful conversations about gender identity and the challenges that come with this intricate and often controversial subject.
‘& Stone Between’ embodies the beautiful messiness of life. Claudette shows us that even though we’re each on our own paths, life doesn’t hit the brakes. It just keeps moving, with its ups and downs, and that contrast really comes through in the music. The thoughtful lyrics blend seamlessly with the rich and diverse R&B vibe that defines Claudette, encouraging you to reflect while also touching your heart.
‘Big Wigs’ is a standout track from the second part of the EP: a full-throttle audio experience that gathers you into its embrace. The accompanying music video is a visual feast that uses cutting-edge volumetric technology by Arcturus. With its 360-degree field of view, the net result is that the viewer feels like they’re right there with Forest Claudette in an intimate space. The Arcturus collab feels like an inspired decision, reinventing the music video format and offering a fresh ways to deliver the music.
With ‘Jupiter & Stone Between’, Claudette is proving that they’re not just an artist but also a captivating storyteller. They weave together themes of love, acceptance, and a unique perspective on modern life. As they navigate their way through the music scene, there are promising signs that Forest Claudette could be a special talent, whose unique voice is set to leave lasting impression on the industry at large.