Such A Long Way
Self-Released, 2020
9/10
A Seattle songstress who now lives in Tennessee, even though this is Jess Jocoy’s first album, she’s been a songwriter in the making her entire life, as her parents shuttled her to singing competitions during her formative years.
The album starts with the gorgeous “Existential Crossroads”, where Jocoy’s poetic delivery suits the warm Americana perfectly, and “The Ballad Of Two Lovers” continues the elegance with a mesmerizing beat as the melodies radiate a breezy quality.
A record that’s all substance and no fluff, “Castles Made Of Sand” embraces a folk spirit in the introspective climate that’s a bit darker in scope, while “She Won’t Be Sad Anymore” flows with timeless instrumentation and a stirring emotional appeal. “Hallelujah” then steps into a more rock’n’roll influenced atmosphere as soaring vocals align with fuller landscape.
Near the end, “Aching To Feel Alive” showcases a moving, uplifting approach, and “Hope (Such A Long Way)”, exits the listen soft, bare and full of subtle power in its forthright execution.
Intimate, heartfelt and full of universal storytelling, thought Jocoy is a youngster, she delivers like an old soul with her thoughtful song craft. If this is the next household name to come out of Nashville it wouldn’t surprise me one bit, cause this debut is nothing short of stunning.
Travels well with: Surrender Hill- A Whole Lot Of Freedom; Lynne Hanson- Just Words