The last time we checked in with Milwaukee singer/songwriter/cafe co-owner Ellie Jackson, she had just released the one-two punch of “Dinner With A Friend” and “Dream Girl.” The singles were poppy and dreamy, respectively, and both perfect examples of Jackson’s effortlessly sharp songwriting:

Jackson’s latest song, “China Lights,” is a more somber and melancholy affair, but it, too, is a songwriting masterclass. “Goodnight, China Lights / The idea of you was nice,” she sings on the chorus. Later: “You wanted a body / I wanted a fresh start / You wanted a heartbreak / Well, baby, only love can break your heart.” Oof.

Listen to it now:

“China Lights” features the talents of some frequent Jackson collaborators: Devin Drobka on drums; Barry Paul Clark on bass; Will Hanson on slide guitar; and Caley Conway, Emily Wagner-Morrow, and Maximiano on backing vocals. The track was produced by Joe Kirschling, who is likely attending and taking pictures at a show right this very second.

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Ellie Jackson gets “Dinner With A Friend,” is not your “Dream Girl”

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Matt Wild weighs between 140 and 145 pounds. He lives on Milwaukee's east side.