The familiar sensation of heartbreak and the pain of letting go is a feeling many know too well. “Better Man” from The Devil Said Jump tells that story tenfold; one of a dismantled queer relationship that has moved on to a new man, and the struggle of constant comparisons one makes being the previous woman of the relationship. The song encapsulates these emotions with a true Americana tune, sweet vocals and an optimistic flow, despite the somber undertones beneath. The Devil Said Jump have used this classic style to their advantage, while creating a sound unique to the duo.
Hailing from Chicago, The Devil Said Jump combines the sounds of Americana music, with the lyricism and storytelling of indie folk and old country. The duo, consisting of Megan Loveless and Emily Franke, released their debut album Renaissance Man in Dec. 2023. Since then, the group has released seven additional songs, their second album All Shook Up in Nov. 2024 and have been playing live shows across the Chicago area. Their latest single, “Better Man,” released on Nov. 20, and is true to their sound and style; reminiscent of Brandi Carlile, Buffy Sainte-Marie and Emmylou Harris.
The track starts soft and smooth, unassuming to the naked ear. A lull for what is to come. Then, the entry lyric hits you with a punch in the gut.
“You say you got a boyfriend / Congrat-u-fucking-lations / I hope he makes you laugh Til you cry”
The universal feeling of moving on and wanting the best for both the audience and their ex, but feeling that they moved on to someone they could never be is a devastating revelation. As mentioned, the vocals are soft, unassuming and almost cautionary. The song picks up, and the addition of drums and additional guitar increases the optimistic sound. Yet, the lyrics tell a conflicting narrative to the music.
“And I bet he’s a little taller / Bet he makes a pretty dollar / Bet your mama loves him / Cuz he’s so strong and handy”
The reminder that the listener once knew this reality, that it was once their reality, and is now being lived through someone else hurts more than anything ever could. Fantasizing about a cryptid who may or may not be what is imagined, but as the thoughts continue to pile up and spiral, it becomes all-consuming. Constant comparison, looking back on what could have been and the turmoil knowing the future they had hoped for themself was being overtaken by someone that they could never be, someone “better.”
“He better be your biggest fan / Better bend into your plans / He better be a better man than me”
Despite all of these thoughts, despite all the mess and desire for more, there is also the desire for a happy ending for everyone involved, and to make sure everyone leaves in a better position than they left. Rather than hoping things are better for them, they ought to be better. Tying into the tone presented by the song, rather than making a heart-wrenching ballad, Emily and Megan did what they do best: combine classic folk sounds with true storytelling that fits with the melodies being performed.
“Better Man” is a melancholic story of memories that are being held onto tightly, intertwined with fast and melodic guitar and sweet vocals that help you get lost in your own thoughts. The ever-present reminder in heartbreak that when it comes time to move on, it never comes easily, and will come with many challenges to face head on. A constant reminder that the past is always slipping, yet persistent in following wherever we go.
The Devil Said Jump played two December shows in Chicago, on the 3rd at the Playground Theater and the 4th at Ramova Loft, and are preparing for a headlining performance at The Burlington on Jan. 15, 2026.
Keep up with The Devil Said Jump:
Website / Spotify / Apple Music / Instagram / TikTok / YouTube
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