Alternative Folk Rock artist Paul Jackson returns with a new heartfelt single, ‘The Head and the Handle‘, set for release on July 16, 2025.
Recorded at The Lab Studios in Auckland, New Zealand, the track showcases Jackson’s lyrical depth and signature emotive sound, blending introspective storytelling with rich, organic instrumentation.
The track, produced and mixed by acclaimed producer Scott Seabright (Neil Finn, Mick Fleetwood, Passenger), features Paul Jackson on vocals, guitar, bass, and harmonica, Stephen Small on piano and keyboards, and Adam Tobeck on drums.
‘The Head and the Handle‘ is a song born of memory and philosophical reflection.
“This is a song of nostalgia which came in parts over a long period of time”, says Jackson.
“The first lines came while sitting on a balcony overlooking a river in Gisborne, New Zealand, where I’d moved with my Irish girlfriend. The phrase ‘The head and the handle’ refers to the philosophical idea of identity over time—asking, if all the parts of something are replaced, is it still the same thing? Juxtaposed with the line ‘if I knew then what I know now,’ the song reflects a calm nostalgia and self-acceptance.”
Paul’s harmonica solo—an emotional homage to ‘Rainy Night in Soho’ by Shane MacGowan and The Pogues—brings additional warmth and character to the track.
Originally from Perth, Western Australia, Jackson has spent over a decade performing across New Zealand before relocating to County Clare, Ireland in 2022. His recent single ‘Australian‘ has received regular airplay on Clare FM, earning him local recognition and a strong pub and festival following in the region.
Paul has played major festivals including Big Day Out, Gisborne Food and Wine Festival, Rhythm and Vines, and Ireland’s Christmas Féile Mol An Óige.
He’s supported acts such as John Butler Trio, The Tea Party, Trinity Roots, and Mick Flannery. His ability to connect with audiences across continents has solidified his reputation as a seasoned and sincere performer.
Connect with Paul Jackson