New Mexico-based artist Jess Wayne blends folk, country blues, Americana, and touches of jazz into a genre he calls “Electric Bourbon Folk – Smooth with a Smoky Finish” on his new album Ancient Door. Marked by raw authenticity and lyrical wisdom, the album reflects his move from Hollywood to Taos, NM and explores themes of love, loss, and staying present. Through soul-baring songwriting and a Southwestern-tinged sound, Wayne invites listeners on a journey through change, healing, and self-discovery.
Opening track “Supposed To Be Flying” plays like a warming encouragement in the face of tumult, melding twangy guitars and vibrant piano as Wayne’s melodic vocals encourage to “don’t look back, keep your hands on the wheel, and your eyes on track” in persevering and moving forward. The scenic depictions of an open-road journey, into a sense of renewal, makes for a resonating impact — particularly in the context of Wayne’s own geographical move. Ensuing track “Wasted Time” continues the introspective allure, exuding how “the wind is free” and “I dream of flying alive instantly” as those soaring ambitions of freedom — to “fly away” — continue to enthrall within a comforting Americana production.
Another highlight, “Learn To Love” showcases Wayne’s more tender immersion — weaving gentle guitar work and the presence of another “who makes me believe that I’m enough just the way I am” with their affection and care. The demonstrations of how not wallowing in personal faults, and lead to learning to love, have a spine-tingling effect. Album finale “Come Join The Dance” also succeeds in its moving songwriting, contemplating on a struggle to find one’s path, particularly in older age. “Ask your spirit to take you back,” Wayne sings, beckoning to treasure the days and self as a title-touting allure stirs in its country, folk, and rock cohesion. Ancient Door is an impactful display of consistently quality songwriting from Jess Wayne.
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“Wasted Time” and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
