Dear listener and reader of Soundville, get all your attention ready, because Jared Bill is back today with his third album ‘Unknown Country’, a ten-track record, and believe me, it’s nothing like what you might expect. Oh yes, it’s definitely a great country album, infused with touches of indie rock, Americana, and experimental indie sound that will undoubtedly give you minute after minute of pure enjoyment, thanks to its excellent production and Jared’s deep, velvety vocals. But ‘Unknown Country’ is a story. A story you’ll see through surrealism, through almost clinical imagery, and really, what could be more straightforward than, say, a pizza? However, even that image carries a much deeper meaning, and so it goes with nearly every track on ‘Unknown Country’. Or take the stories of unions, which pull you back into reality stronger than any storm warning.
The musician and songwriter Jared Bill is known for his conceptually rich and intriguing releases. Each of his albums feels like a work of postmodern musical art. Take an image, turn it inside out, draw a parallel with reality, and leave it to the listener. Something that feels genuine and seemingly simple – carries a complex undertone of social critique, filtered through witty and playful lyrics. With ‘Unknown Country’, Jared has taken this approach to new heights.
What I especially like is how Jared manages to keep a certain line in his sound that the listener doesn’t have to cross. On one hand, we have a fantastic album you can just listen to, sway to the rhythm, have fun, and not worry about anything. Jared’s music makes that effortlessly possible. But on the other side of that line, if you choose to peek behind the curtain of ‘Unknown Country,’ you’ll find the backstage of its playful lyrics, something that might just shake you up. So, which side are you on? Oh well, I suggest you drop everything right now, dive into the brightest tracks of ‘Unknown Country,’ and try to unravel the riddles and clues Jared Bill has left for us. Let’s go!
With a touch of classic Country flair, the track ‘The Cruise’ opens the album. What’s truly unique here is how Jared Bill blends several vocal techniques and styles. The melody flows easily, creating a soft atmosphere that makes me follow the rhythm. Definitely my soundtrack of the day. Beyond its engaging tune and vocals, the lyrics are also worth attention. It tells a story of everyday life into which an unexpected lottery win suddenly intrudes. Pizza, receipts, and a huge luck, but is it really luck? The images of ordinary life (god, I’ve eaten cold pizza for breakfast myself!) become strangely distorted, creating a subtle feeling of anxiety. And should we even wait for that very big win at all?
In the next track, ‘Feeding the Crows,’ the story takes a different turn. Through a laid-back Country sound and a swaying rhythm that creates a calming mood, Jared Bill leads us into a tale of troubles on the water and the feeding of crows, the symbol of V and free birds. The conflicting images form, on one hand, a dark story of inevitability in feeding the crows, and on the other, a story of the mystical presence of luck in the form of a flock of birds or a lottery win.
I like the subtle irony in the song title ‘No Fiesta’. In the gentle, swaying Country Americana rhythms, with light rock riffs and a cozy blend of guitars, Jared Bill tells a story of life and brings social issues of the world to the surface. At the same time, he still keeps the playfulness and cheerfulness of the song, leaving room for joy. I am completely captivated by the surreal feel of the track ‘Zero Turn’. I’m sure this cheerful americana piece is filled with plenty of meaning, and it seems that this is where the storytelling concentration reaches its peak. You know, after listening, there’s a feeling of uncertainty left, and you just have to play it again to make sure your guesses were right. Perfect!
Let yourself be a little more grounded with ‘Praying for a Bowl’! The flawless soft acoustic riff merges with bright electric guitar riffs, breaking the melody and creating a feeling of experimental sound. You know, this song you can simply listen to with your eyes closed or while walking through your city. Easy, free, and playful. I like the dynamics of the album and the change of mood. Really great!
The album concludes with the songs ‘Newport Grand’ and ‘Desert Rose Bouquet’, bringing the vibrant story of ‘Unknown Country’ to a close. In ‘Newport Grand’, Jared once again tells an intriguing story of a city resident. You know, after listening to this track, it feels as if the whole album is one city, one universe where all these stories take place, each keeping its own secrets between the lines. The chorus of ‘Newport Grand’ sounds absolutely swinging with heavy rock guitars and processed vocals, while the light saxophone adds a touch of softness and an almost romantic atmosphere.
The final track, ‘Desert Rose Bouquet’, is one of the most mysterious and mystical pieces and a pinnacle of Jared Bill’s lyrical mastery. From word to word, the story shifts, with subtle metamorphoses that change its meaning and narrative. All of this is supported by gentle keyboards and experimental harmonies. When the melody breaks and starts sounding almost backward, it takes me to images of another space or a distortion of space itself, and then the melody comes back together again! Close to David Lynch’s films? Absolutely!
If you’re looking for music that inspires you, makes you think, and sparks your imagination, Jared Bill’s album ‘Unknown Country’ should definitely be on your playlist. Make sure to add your favorite tracks and follow Jared Bill to stay up to date with exciting new releases!
Hey Jared Bill! Thank you for releasing such interesting music. When I listened to your album, I couldn’t stop thinking about the images that came to my mind. It all came from your lyrics. What really mattered to me was how the music created a soft background, and that really worked for me. Please keep making more amazing music! I’ll definitely share your album ‘Unknown Country’ with everyone so they can experience this mysterious and cool sound too. I love it and want more! I’m your fan!
With much love,
Soundville
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