Jared James Nichols, the blues rock virtuoso and Gibson ambassador, released his new self-titled album on Black Hill Records, almost six years after his last “Back Magic”. The new third full-length was produced, engineered, and mixed by Eddie Spear (Zach Bryan, Slash, Rival Sons) and recorded live in the studio at Blackbird Studios and Sienna Studios. Known for his raw energy, fiery guitar playing, and soulful vocals, Nichols has created an album that is both powerful and rockin’.
The album kicks off with “My Delusion”, a hard rock & roll track that showcases Nichols’ impressive guitar skills and powerful voice. “Easy Come, Easy Go” has the same rock & roll pace with a hard edge at times. “Down the Drain” is a mid-tempo melodic rocker with a catchy chorus that is sure to get stuck in your head… it reminded me a bit of Soundgarden. “Hard Wired”, is the lead single of the album; an impressive heavy blues anthem with amazing guitar licks, which showcases Nichols’ songwriting ability and his unique approach to blues rock.
The album continues with “Bad Roots”, an up-tempo blues rockin’ number, before the melodic “Skin ‘n Bone” pops in that has a more classic rock form. “Long Way Home” has a Zep’s aesthetic, with Jared’s soaring vocals and the calm verse along with the harder chorus. “Shadow Dancer” has an alternative & grunge-like vibe; really fancy the atmospheric solo it has. “Good Time Girl” retains the classic blues rock formula, and “Hallelujah” is a straightforward hard rocker. “Saint or Fool” keeps on rockin’ and Jared is soloing for good. Finally, “Out of Time” puts the album to a close in an emotional and touching way. This track is a moving tribute to his late father.
The production is very good in general, even though I would want it to be a bit more polished. That “live” feeling is probably due to the way the album was recorded in the first place. The guitar work is fantastic, featuring some great riffs and amazing solos. The vocal performances are also wonderful.
All things considered, Jared James Nichols’ self-titled record is a great leap in the development of the Nashville-based guitarist & singer. It is clear that Nichols has grown as a musician, both in terms of songwriting and guitar playing. The album is full of catchy melodies, rockin’ riffs, amazing solos and powerful vocals, making it probably his most complete work to date. If you enjoy classic rock and blues rock music, this is an album you should definitely listen to.
