Unlike some artists who prefer to maintain a consistent sound throughout their careers, Jordan Jones is not bound by such constraints. His recent release, “And I, You,” on Lolipop Records, deviates significantly from its self-titled predecessor.

This captivating newcomer presents a richly orchestrated pop sound, drawing clear influences from the meticulous songwriting styles of Brian Wilson and Burt Bacharach. However, Jones transforms these influences into a contemporary sound, creating a modern album that can be readily likened to the acclaimed works of artists such as Michael Rault or Jonathan Rado.

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You can discover ‘Love Song of J’ featured on the Best Power Pop of 2024 Spotify Playlist.

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The decision to seek opinions on your new songs is intriguing. When did you realize that external perspectives could contribute to your creative process?

The only competitive bone in my body comes out when writing music. Mike Collins (Drugdealer) and I basically lived together through the pandemic and while he was writing his new record, I was writing mine so we would go back and forth sometimes until 6 or 7 A.M. discussing ideas and notes and chords and changes to make each other’s songs come together. When he would bring me his latest idea, it was usually (and obviously) really fucking good so I couldn’t wait to leave the room or pull his iPhone speaker away from my ear and run to my piano to write something as good if not better. His opinions were and still are important to me. Nobody else’s though.

Success can take on different meanings as time goes on. When envisioning success for this new record, what does that picture look like now?

People playing the record at any type of social gathering. If somebody can listen to “Promise You Forever” and realize that they aren’t alone and that things pass. When the label needs to press a lot more copies. These things are a success to me at the moment.

Within this collection, do you feel that the best song you’ve ever written finds its home? If not, what distinguishes this record’s essence from your prior work?

“Love Song of J” is probably the best song that I’ve written up to this point. This record creates a nice atmosphere for it so yeah I guess you can call it a home. Maybe an apartment.

As an artist, the act of baring your emotions to the world is profound. Does this vulnerability come naturally to you, or is it a constant journey of finding comfort?

I’ve never even noticed it. I don’t use my vulnerability in creating music. I usually save that for times when my music can be useful once it’s completed. I’ve always felt extremely comfortable making and performing music. The comfort I’m on a journey for is accepting praise. That I will never handle naturally.

Defining a song’s completion can be elusive. How do you determine when a composition has reached its final, ready-to-record form?

When you just can’t see out the windshield of it any longer. You can keep going but it’s too dangerous and ultimately detrimental and you’ll just need to start backtracking to clean it up because you’ve over complicated things.

Can you recall the last instance when you felt the immediate certainty of having penned a hit song?

The first time I heard the playback of the “Love Song of J” demo (which back then was just called “F Song”) I knew I had done something really special, at least special to me. Then I showed that demo to some very important people to me and the response was overwhelming. They validated my feelings, I needed that. At that point I really wasn’t concerned if the public latched onto it or made it a “hit” because I was already satisfied.

In a hypothetical scenario where you could tour with two other bands, who would be your ideal companions and what synergies do you envision?

My dream is to tour with Spiritualized. It would just work.

Among the compliments you’ve received, is there one that remains etched in your memory? If so, what made it particularly unforgettable?

One of the musicians I hired for my record release show last weekend just complimented me on how professional I was as a band leader. That was really striking and pleasing.

Studio moments often hold a touch of magic. Could you recount an instance that stands out as the most enchanting during your creative process?

First are all the moments I would hum or play individual notes on the piano for the string part I had envisioned to Emily (cellist) and Laena (violin & viola) and they perform it and watch it work perfectly. As someone who doesn’t read or write music, that direct communication from your brain’s idea coming to life and with such immediacy, made me physically numb. Second was watching Molly Lewis (whistle) perform while recording “Love or Lose”.

Where do you see yourself situated within the broader landscape of the music industry? How do you perceive your unique role and contribution?

Scoring film and producing records is something I would really like to do.

With the record completed and the music released, do you believe the pinnacle of enjoyment has been reached, or is this just the beginning of an exciting phase?

I really hope I never I never reach any type of pinnacle in music.

Looking ahead to the next couple of months, what exciting plans or projects are on the horizon for you?

Finding management or some sort of representation. Booking really special shows. I’m also going into the studio to start on the 3rd record later this month.

In the digital age, visual elements are intertwined with music. How did you approach the album’s visual aesthetics, such as album art and accompanying visuals? How do they complement the sonic experience you’ve crafted?

Having my good friend Andrew Peters shoot the album photos was crucial. I believe his talent will be a really important part of drawing people in with that beautiful cover photo. Christopher Deloach’s gorgeous portrait painting for the “Listen” digital single art was a complete success too. I believe when you hear “And I, You” and see all this sensitive and slightly mysterious art, you’ll further understand the mood of the record. I’m really lucky to have these artists in my life.