Jackson, an indie folk-rock artist and multi-instrumentalist from Long Valley, New Jersey, has carved out a unique space in the indie music scene with his heartfelt and transparent musical style. His journey began with a guitar in hand at the age of 12, finding his voice and honing his craft in his local church, where he started performing regularly by the time he turned 15. From these humble beginnings, Jackson’s passion for music blossomed, eventually leading him to perform at local venues across New Jersey and New York, where his ability to connect with audiences through raw emotion became his signature.
In 2018, Jackson made the bold move to Nashville, Tennessee, in pursuit of his music dreams full-time. This transition marked a significant milestone in his growth as both an artist and a producer. While living in Nashville, Jackson deepened his skills by attending the prestigious Dark Horse Institute in 2021, where he studied audio engineering. This gave him the technical edge to complement his already impressive musicianship, allowing him to take full control of his creative process. Jackson’s music blends folk’s storytelling roots with the edginess of indie rock, creating a sound that is both soothing and powerful. His work reflects not only the influences of these genres but also his personal experiences, making each song a reflection of his journey.
With his latest album “Less Familiar”, released on October 4th, 2024, Jackson presents a body of work that is deeply personal and emotionally resonant. This album marks a significant period in his life, showcasing both the highs and lows of recent years. From the pain of family losses to the joy of his recent marriage, “Less Familiar” is a heartfelt journey through Jackson’s most intimate emotions. This self-recorded, produced, and mixed album reveals Jackson’s growth not only as an artist but also as a producer, highlighting his technical prowess while staying true to the raw and emotional depth that his listeners have come to love.
Less Familiar Album Track List:
All I Need:
“All I Need,” the opening track from Jackson’s album “Less Familiar”, radiates an infectious energy that is immediately captivating. From the very first click of the drumsticks, the song reveals a fully developed rhythm that marries joyful drum beats, bright piano melodies, and smooth basslines. The overall vibe is upbeat, with Jackson delivering an authentic blend of emotion, groove, and soul. His vocal delivery carries an ethereal calm, and the clarity and purity in his voice shine through every note. This opening builds into a cheerful, mid-tempo arrangement that envelops the listener in a warm, joyful atmosphere. At the same time, the instrumentation remains polished yet organic, a reflection of Jackson’s multi-instrumental prowess.
The song’s structure allows the listener to experience two emotional contrasts. At the 0:22 mark, the track pulls back into a more intimate space, stripping down the rhythm to create a delicate interplay between a soft drumbeat, tender guitar strokes, and soothing piano melodies. This serene, almost celestial soundscape forms the perfect foundation for Jackson’s angelic voice to glide over. His vocals are both tranquil and uplifting, embodying a sense of peace as the song transitions through its more introspective moments. As the song begins to build once more, the subtle percussive touches and instrumental layers return, leading into an explosive resurgence of the earlier, happier energy at 1:58. This ebb and flow of emotions is masterfully handled, making the transitions feel seamless and full of life.
One of the most striking elements of “All I Need” is how the track balances moments of quiet reflection with vibrant musical peaks. The soft undertone vocal harmonies provide a soothing underlayer that complements Jackson’s main vocal line, adding depth to the overall sound. The guitar riffs scattered throughout the track are beautifully executed, providing both texture and a sense of movement. By the end, the song leaves a lasting impression, brimming with a graceful, soulful energy that feels as natural as it is uplifting. It’s a song that invites the listener to immerse themselves in its layers, a truly magnificent introduction to “Less Familiar”.
Unraveling:
The song “Unraveling” by Jackson, which is featured on the album “Less Familiar,” is exquisitely composed and radiates grace and tenderness right away. The first few seconds build a serene, reflective mood with a reverb-coated fusion of piano and guitar tunes. Subtle rhythmic patterns and these layers combine to provide an atmosphere that is both personal and broad. The noises intensify as the reverb fades, exposing a deep, emotional quality that characterizes the song’s central theme. The relaxed midtempo beat, with its warm, inviting atmosphere, is the ideal accompaniment to Jackson’s passionate vocal performance. His voice, which has an angelic aspect, delivers the lyrics with a sense of grace and passion, giving the song an unavoidable emotional weight.
A prominent feature of “Unraveling” is the complex interplay between the guitar and keyboard melodies. These instruments move in and out of each other’s space with a fluidity that seems both intentional and impromptu, dancing in an unusual and mesmerizing pattern. Smooth basslines and a steady drum beat serve as the foundation, giving the song texture and rhythm without overpowering its delicate qualities. This balance between the various elements ensures that the song maintains a smooth flow, pulling the listener deeper into its soundscape while remaining grounded in its cozy, intimate energy.
As “Unraveling” progresses, the music subtly builds in intensity, leading to a beautifully fitting climax. The sonic layers come together in a final swell, creating a sense of resolution that feels deeply satisfying. The song’s emotional resonance is enhanced by this careful construction, with Jackson’s vocals soaring above the instrumentation in a way that heightens the track’s overall beauty. By the end, “Unraveling” leaves the listener feeling both grounded and uplifted, wrapped in its warmth and charm—a true testament to Jackson’s ability to craft music that touches the soul.
Atrium:
“Atrium,” a track from Jackson’s album “Less Familiar”, is a beautiful, soothing composition that captivates with its subtle intensity and progression. The song doesn’t aim for complexity but instead flows with a natural grace, making each element feel perfectly in place. It opens with the celestial strumming of guitar strings, creating an ethereal atmosphere that feels like a paradisal escape. This introduction is quickly joined by percussive hand-drum sounds, adding a cultural texture that sets the stage for what’s to come. When Jackson’s voice enters, the song’s hypnotic quality deepens. His angelic, soulful vocals carry the lyrics with an emotive passion that draws the listener in effortlessly.
As “Atrium” unfolds, Jackson skillfully layers the instrumentation, gently building the track’s momentum. The subtle basslines make their entrance, providing depth and richness, while the piano adds a soulful touch, enveloping the melody with warmth. The final addition—the groovy drum beat—ties everything together, injecting the track with a steady, irresistible rhythm. The guitar strings maintain a constant thread of beauty throughout, while the bass and piano interplay creates a laid-back, midtempo groove that feels both smooth and hypnotic. The atmosphere of the song is calm and infectious, a testament to Jackson’s ability to craft sounds that soothe while holding the listener in a musical trance.
By the time “Atrium” reaches its climax, the song has intensified in a way that feels organic and enchanting. The layers of sound swell together, creating a lush, bewitching energy that is impossible to resist. The track’s steady development, from its celestial beginnings to its rich, textured conclusion, showcases Jackson’s talent for creating music that evolves without losing its core. “Atrium” is a masterclass in balance—each instrument, each note, each vocal line serves a purpose, making the song a captivating journey from start to finish.
Floating Through:
“Floating Through,” a mesmerizing instrumental track from Jackson’s album “Less Familiar”, envelops the listener in a wash of beauty and grace. The composition begins with celestial guitar strings that set a serene ambiance, immediately drawing you into a world of tranquility. This ethereal quality is further enhanced by the elegant piano melodies that engage in a delicate dance with the guitar, creating a harmonious interplay that feels both soothing and uplifting. As the track progresses, the deep texture of smooth bass sounds gradually enters, adding depth and richness to the sonic landscape. The steady groove of the drum beat serves as a foundation that anchors the composition, providing a rhythmic pulse that enhances the overall feeling of floating through a dreamy atmosphere.
What makes “Floating Through” truly captivating is its ability to maintain a midtempo hypnotic haven while evoking a cozy, almost ethereal vibe. The seamless blending of instrumentation creates a steady consistency that elevates the listening experience, making it feel as if time slows down. Each element—the guitar, piano, bass, and drums—comes together in a way that is both sophisticated and accessible, resulting in a track that is not only beautiful but also emotionally resonant. The marvel of this piece lies in its simplicity; it invites the listener to relax and drift away, basking in the soothing embrace of sound. In essence, “Floating Through” is a stunning demonstration of Jackson’s artistry, capturing the essence of serenity and elegance with each note.
Jackson’s “Less Familiar” album will speak to everyone who has overcome obstacles in life and emerged in a different but hopeful state. With its complexity and accessibility, the music has something to offer everyone. It’s difficult to deny the genuineness of Jackson’s music, whether it’s the poignant instrumentals or the profound emotional content of the lyrics. His ability to maintain a strong sense of intimacy while fusing rock and indie folk components is what makes this album unique. A musical voyage through life’s highs and lows, it is full of cathartic, joyful, and reflective moments. With “Less Familiar,” Jackson demonstrates that sometimes the most intimate sources of inspiration can produce the most impactful songs. For fans of indie folk-rock or anyone looking for music that speaks to the soul, “Less Familiar” is a must-listen.
For more information about Jackson, click on the icons below.
