Nashville-based singer-songwriter Jess Nolan has released “Clockwork,” the latest from her forthcoming LP, ‘93, out on September 8th via Ani DiFranco’s label, Righteous Babe Records. “Nolan’s latest effort dives into the subtle and sensual side of soul, soaking the track in smoky vocal melodies, soulful keys, and sparse percussion,” said Under The Radar in their premiere. “The track gives Nolan’s vocals space to shine, making full use of the spacious arrangement, but as the track winds onward it steadily fills out with guitar and some decadent saxophone soloing, eventually locking into an intoxicating groove. It is soft and confessional, layering honeyed instrumentation together with effortless grace, but also has a subtle neo-soul allure that is sure to get bodies moving.”
“We tracked ‘Clockwork’ while the movie Labyrinth was playing on the studio TV on mute, and I’d like to think David Bowie’s spirit came through for the sonic energy of it,” Nolan told Under The Radar. “I see the lyrics of this song as a letter to myself on a continued journey of self-awareness. With age, I’m gaining new perspective on my patterns and instead of chastising myself in the process, I’m working to cultivate a kinder inner voice. We have the power to choose how we talk to ourselves. I hope the feel of this song is a reminder to face what’s uncomfortable with gentle honesty and shake free any prideful attempts to undermine ourselves.”
“Clockwork” follows the release of “Windowpanes,” a song about empathy as a window for understanding, featuring background vocals from Katie Pruitt and Kyshona, and “Emergency Landing,” written with friends Hadley Kennary and Jake Finch, a commentary on how society glamorizes the grind and does not prioritize rest.
Nolan is an old soul and a skilled creator who continuously channels a palate of creative endeavors. A member of Jenny Lewis’ all-female touring band, she is an in-demand collaborator, lending her writing, vocal, and instrumentalist talents to projects by artists like Joy Oladokun, Katie Pruitt, Lydia Luce, and more.
The seeds of her new LP, ’93, sprouted in the height of 2020. In the midst of the initial involuntary stillness, she planted a backyard vegetable garden, moved her involvement in mentoring young female songwriters online, and traveled back to her New Jersey hometown to stay with family for weeks at a time. In the face of uncertainty, strong, deeply-rooted feelings came pouring out, resulting in 10 poignant reflections on rebirth, reconnection, and mindfulness. With an intention for listeners to feel grounded from its first moment, ‘93 is meant to be a meditation, bringing a sense of rootedness in its execution. “The process of recording this was relaxed,” Nolan recalls. “It’s the safest I’ve ever felt while creating something.”
“Writing this album was a declaration that I will not give up on myself,” she continues. “Only from that place can I fully show up for those around me. I have so much gratitude for this process of making songs and sharing them. It mimics the natural cycle of things… life, death, life. I see this record as a true reimagining of myself musically and personally. My hope is that it can provide love and comfort to those who need it.”
Nolan will provide opening support for singer-songwriter Bre Kennedy beginning September 28th in Los Angeles, a full list of dates is below. Click HERE to pre-save/pre-order ‘93, and be sure to follow Jess Nolan for all the latest news and updates.
TOUR DATES
8/8 – Desert 5 Spot – Los Angeles, CA
9/28 – Eddie’s Attic – Decatur, GA*
9/30 – Different Wrld – Asheville, NC*
10/2 – DC9 – Washington, DC*
10/4 – The Funhouse – Millvale, PA*
10/14 – Mercury Lounge – New York, NY*
*w/ Bre Kennedy open.spotify.com/album/46xLhp9jvvcuykjfRgBGv3
You can connect with Jess Nolan on website www.jessnolanmusic.com, Facebook @Jess Nolan, Instagram @iamjessnolan, Twitter @iamjessnolan, YouTube @iamjessnolan and Spotify @Jess Nolan
