Words: Gery Hristova

The last months were an emotional rollercoaster for all of us. Many events occurred politically and pandemically, most of which left us heartbroken. However, right before saying goodbye to the past and embracing the new beginning, Jason Payne & The Black Leather Riders are here to show us how to properly ‘rock’ the end of 2020.

Jason Payne is London-based metal artist, whose talent and hard work have helped him to reach over 300,000 streams and play 50 live shows in his blossoming career. After years of developing his music style as the vocalist and guitarist for the British rock band Louzada, his most ambitious project is finally out – a debut single, ‘Waking The Damned’, and its bold, modern metallic sound will stay with you long after hearing it. 

Inspired by ‘The Myth Of Sisyphus’ – Albert Camus’ essay on the absurdity of life –  the song depicts a new chapter. It’s the moment when a person is finally ready to leave the past behind and fight all the stigmas and judgements that structure today’s society. It’s a metaphor for the Phoenix that overcomes all obstacles, just to rise from the ashes even stronger.

With its fast-changing colours and camera angles, the video perfectly describes the singer’s fatigue in living the same quiet and passive life, full with fear of rejection. Firstly, monster-like people seem to smother everyone with their ‘hands’. However, before reaching the end of the song, we face something new, a personal catharsis, gradually followed by long-desired inner peace. 

‘Waking The Damned’ is a song about a war – the hardest one, between your mind and heart. But now, it seems like Payne’s ready to fight tooth and nail for what he truly desire, as giving up is not an option.

“’Waking The Damned’ is also about being reborn and celebrating the birth of something new – the beginning of my career,” Payne states.

What about the beginning of a better year or even better life? Check it out yourself for inspiration.

Follow Jason here http://www.instagram.com/thejasonpayne