Jesse A James Releases “The Standoff”
Jesse A James and his band have maintained a rather enigmatic presence within the musical sphere. In an era of oversharing and constant digital presence, their approach to keeping a low profile is a nod to the mystique that once thrived in the ’90s.
Their most recent release which is a full album called The Standoff quietly entered the scene, venturing into the domain of slightly experimental rock that’s hard to pinpoint. Spanning eleven tracks and approximately forty minutes, it presents a diverse mix of songs and approaches. Certain tracks stood out, beckoning me back for repeated listens. The album’s tone appeared enigmatic, oscillating between moments that seemed whimsical, almost teetering toward parody, and others that earnestly sought to encapsulate the essence of a genre.
The album unfurls with “Mad Science,” kicking off with wickedly sharp guitar work that offers a raw yet intriguing tone. Vocals, albeit slightly whimsical, weave a tapestry of characters, adding an element of playful expression to the track.
Each line feels like a distinct personality, a deliberate choice that sets an unconventional tone for what’s to follow. “Like A Trombone” takes a divergent path, immersing listeners in a fuzzy, slow-burn of a song. Its unique aesthetics, coupled with palpable textures and tones, create a distinct listen that sounds uniquely approachable. Transitioning into “Faces on the Wall,” the album takes a somber turn, shedding the cartoonish vocals for a more serious, droning metal quality that commands attention. This track emerges as a personal favorite, exuding an intense allure through its hauntingly serious demeanor.
“Friend Ship” offers a clever play on words and channels influences reminiscent of bands like Mogwai and other post-rock luminaries. It delivers a pensive atmosphere, showcasing well-crafted lyrics that complement the overall ambiance with finesse. I loved everything about this song and would love to see more of this type of output from the artist.
“Valkyrie” serves as a standout jam, boasting some of the album’s most infectious grooves. Though the drums occasionally sit lower in the mix, the track hits hard. The gradual introduction of guitars builds to an exhilarating climax before gently descending, leaving a lingering impact. The titular track, “The Standoff,” embraces intentional comedic moments, steering into an off-kilter metal realm that refuses to take itself too seriously. The album introduces unexpected surprises like “Melov,” a synth-y instrumental track interspersed with solid guitar work, adding an intriguing divergence to the overall sonic journey.
As “I Grow” draws the curtains on the album; it stands as a testament to exceptional composition and balanced mixing. It arguably houses the most aesthetically pleasing vocal performance, weaving seamlessly into the intricate tapestry of sound. While The Standoff doesn’t boast every track as a gold standard, it contains several gems. Occasionally, the album takes unexpected turns that might feel a tad random, yet its overall construction and vibe offer an enjoyable, well-crafted listening experience. It leaves the audience intrigued and curious about the artistic trajectory that Jesse A James and the band might embark upon in the future.
Zachary Rush