Subscribe to Posts| Trained in voice, piano and guitar, as well as a producer in his own right, singer-songwriter Jason Roe showcases his versatility on his latest 10-track release, Murmuration. Colored with hints of jazz, blues, and indie rock, the listener is never quite sure what will come next. Complete with songs about searching, questioning and hope, Roe’s prolific songwriting strikes a chord. His ability to touch the listener and make him relate is impressive and a feat every songwriter can only hope for. Only fitting is it then, that he has moved to Nashville to continue to work on his craft. |
| Roe’s soft vocals are introduced for the first time on “I Know You Better.” Light percussion and synthesizer accentuate the song as additional backup harmonies echo throughout the track. “All your life you chose to play the role of defender to a fragile soul/Keeping safe by keeping out anybody that could figure you out,” he sings. An emotional tale of one hiding from the world, he sings of those who accept indifference and shy away from who they really are. “Disconnected from what you need/Choosing numbness over finding peace.” Fitting piano interludes only add to this inner journey that everyone faces. A soaring landscape of well blended musical accompaniment and vocals showcase Roe’s ability as a musician and sound engineer. |
| “Inside” follows suit with angelic female harmonies and light acoustic guitar. Ethereal vocals by Roe help round out the jazz infused track. Always one to try something new, “City Love” switches gears to a bluesier, seductive vibe. With a combination of R&B and jazz influence, the track electrifies with a unique percussion beat and Roe’s take charge vocals. No doubt an impressive number, the track begins to drag at four minutes. Clocking in at over five minutes, Roe could have left a greater mark if he shortened the song. |
| The next track, “To Not From,” lulls the listener into a state of relaxation with soft vocals and equally reflective lyrics. This ballad once again showcases Roe’s mesmerizing voice and musical aptitude. While “Need To Know” follows with slight deviation from “To Not From” with edgier vocals and aggressive electric guitar at distinct points in the song, it is next track, “Soul Song” that leaves the greatest impression. With emotional vocals and faster musical accompaniment than witnessed previously on Murmuration, the track is a welcomed change. |
| Standout number, “How Can It Be” follows suit and demonstrates a more laidback vibe for Roe. With deep, jazzy vocals and grungy electric guitar accompaniment, the track embodies several genres. Distinct and soulful, it is hard to believe this is the same singer showcased throughout the album. Switching gears from lighthearted to a darker growl, the track portrays a new side of Roe. |
| “Reach” is a motivating track about day to day struggles. Powerful vocals and uplifting lyrics are accompanied by heavier instrumentation. Indie rock at its best, the aggressive vocals and heavy hitting guitar, percussion and string accompaniment strike a chord. |
| Overall an impressive release, Roe manages to switch gears adequately from soft ballad to energetic jazz number. While some tracks drag on, those with short attention spans are sure to find something to grasp onto. The fast paced “How Can It Be” and “Reach” satisfy while the ethereal “Inside” demonstrates Roe’s vision of sweeping musical landscapes and emotion fueled vocals. Not one to shy away from a challenge, with continued focus on his songwriting skills, Roe is sure to make a name for himself in Nashville. |
| Review by Annie Reuter Rating: 3 out of 5 stars |
Jason Roe
acoustic eclectic music
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Review by Annie Reuter 3 out of 5 stars
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