Song of the Day: Jen Cloher - Forgot Myself

Every Monday through Friday, we deliver a different song as part of our Song of the Day podcast subscription. This podcast features exclusive KEXP in-studio performances, unreleased songs, and recordings from independent artists that our DJ’s think you should hear. Today’s song, featured on The Midday Show with Cheryl Waters, is “Forgot Myself” by Jen Cloher from her 2017 self-titled album on Milk! Records.

Jen Cloher - Forgot Myself (MP3)

One listen to Australian singer/songwriter Jen Cloher, and you certainly won't forget. Based out of Melbourne, Cloher has been a standout in the local scene for a decade now. Her 2006 debut LP Dead Wood Falls landed her a nomination for "Best Female Artist" at the ARIA Music Awards (akin to our Grammys), and her 2013 full-length In Blood Memory was shortlisted for the prestigious Mercury Prize.

Today's Song of the Day was undoubtedly inspired by her wife of six years, Courtney Barnett. "You've been gone so long you could've been dead," Cloher talk-sings, reminiscent of Kim Deal of The Breeders, or, well, Barnett herself. (It's worth noting that both Courtney and her bassist, Bones Sloane, play on the song.) With nods to Patti Smith, both stylistically and in the lyrics, Cloher laments the long periods alone when Courtney is touring. "A slow reply can really mess with your head," she sings, as anyone who's texted with a loved one who's away can relate.

Cloher won't forget herself on the upcoming "Kurt & Courtney" tour; she's the opening act, including two nights in Seattle, Saturday, October 21st and Sunday, October 22nd, at the Moore Theatre. Until then, check out a video for today's featured track below, directed by Annelise Hickey, and featuring cameos from Courtney and Bones.