Nashville-based singer-songwriter Will Jackson recently dropped his latest album, Songs From the Briarpatch, a celebration of both Nashville and Americana music.
Talking about the album’s inspiration, Jackson says, “‘Songs From the Briarpatch’ came into fruition after falling in love with the exploding Americana genre in Nashville, TN. There’s a little corner of music that’s always inspired me; not too heavy, not too soft, great melodies, and most importantly a heavy emphasis on well-written, thoughtful songwriting. After playing in various bands and trying to achieve this sound on a few projects, I feel that I’ve put out a release that truly reflects the artist that I am and want to develop. I’m grateful for anyone who listens and resonates with these songs.”
Born and raised in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, where he was surrounded by music – classic rock, musical theatre, alt-rock, and Top 40 – good songwriting was what caught his attention. By the time he was 14, he was performing professionally. Later, he studied at Berklee College of Music, majoring in songwriting, followed by heading to Nashville.
He and a college friend formed a band and began playing the clubs downtown, on the Lower Broadway strip. After more than 1000 performances in Nashville, Jackson took everything he had absorbed along the way and infused it into his new album – Songs From the Briarpatch.
Encompassing 10-tracks, the album begins with “Looks Like Today,” opening on a tasty melody layered with glistening guitars and a braying organ, while Jackson’s expressive voice, reminiscent of Tom Petty, fills the lyrics with evocative colors. A searing, twangy guitar solo spikes the tune with sumptuous colors.
Highlights include “Good Enough,” rife with luscious Southern gospel flavors, on this track Jackson’s tones conjure up savors of Don Henley, slightly raspy, yet magnetically alluring. “Drinking My Home” is another strong track, traveling on gleaming coloration accented by a glowing organ.
“There Was A Time” rolls out on delicious Americana textures, rippling with vibrant, low-slung energy as Jackson’s eloquent tones imbue the lyrics with warmth and nostalgia. “Gonna Get Me Killed” kicks in with country-rock gusto, propelled by driving, growling guitars.
A personal favorite, “Walking on Fire” features sensuous guitars atop a mid-tempo rhythm. The pull of the tune comes from Jackson’s wistful tones, infusing the lyrics with voluptuous gospel essence and touches of melancholy.
Songs From the Briarpatch is excellent, chock-full of creamy, compelling rhythms, rolling echelons of scrummy Americana, and Will Jackson’s elite voice.
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