Scott Clay’s latest offering, Jade, is an aural expedition through the fertile grounds of Americana, seen through the lens of both reverence and revolution. Over the course of his career, Clay has adeptly worn the garb of a traditionalist and a pathfinder, but it’s within the grooves of this, his sixth studio album, where his dual identities most compellingly converge.

Clay’s voice, with a gentle rasp, carries the weight of both told and untold stories, serving as a sturdy thread stitching together the unique sound on the album. His unique timbre resonates through the album, blending effortlessly with the diverse instrumentation that spans genres and eras, creating an immersive auditory experience. Each track unfolds like a chapter in a novel, compelling and rich with emotion, painting vivid scenes that linger in the memory long after the last note fades.

photo by Stacy Landers

Looking ahead, I must say that personally, after listening, I immediately wanted to dive back in for another round, as the album flows seamlessly from start to finish—a true mark of quality. This collection of songs doesn’t just entertain, it transports listeners, inviting them to explore depths and heights of musical expression rarely achieved in contemporary music.

The album opens with the slow and romantic Americana ballad “One For The Road,” the first single from the album. In this track, vibrant arrangements intertwine with slow vocals and light synth keys. Complex and catchy guitar parts immediately create a new and captivating atmosphere. Moving on to the next track, “Wildfire,” not only Scott Clay’s vocals but also his desire to create a complex and harmonious sound are further revealed. The myriad of instruments, styles, and harmonies woven into the track serve as a vivid example of a intricately and professionally crafted song. I appreciate the mood shift in the track “Burning For You,” dominated by melancholic tones. The electric guitars almost fall into a rock groove, while stylish high keys in the chorus emphasize the uniqueness of the sound. Stylish funk fills the consciousness in the track “World Gone Crazy.” This track seems to draw inspiration from retro classics, immediately creating a playful mood.

I like Scott Clay’s low vocals, which highlight his wide range. In the album “Jade,” every listener will find music to their taste: from acoustic and Americana to nostalgic funk. At the heart of the album, the second single “The Painter” divides the album’s sound into two parts. This slow, sad ballad sets the stage for full immersion in sound. Stylish vocal harmonies in the chorus distinguish the track and make it the most sensual in the release. I like how the album blends moods, yet the sound always balances within the given tone.

photo by Stacy Landers

For example, the track “The Sun Song” with its memorable lyrics, voluminous guitars, and airy keys is suitable in scale for closing a stadium concert. It’s a slow and stylish track with a bright rhythm change, and the middle emphasizes Scott Clay’s ability to work with different sounds and moods. Continuing the wave of light experimentation, the track “Jade” sounds complex and stylish, with original and unique vocal lines. I like that Scott Clay is always looking for new ways to express his thoughts and sound. This makes the album “Jade” expressive and deep.

The final track, “El Tiempo Dira (Time Will Tell),” leaves a juicy aftertaste from listening, thanks to the tender duet. The tenderness, caress, and romanticism in the sound of the final track make the ending pleasant and push for a repeat listening of the release.

The production on “Jade” is meticulous, a deliberate choice that enhances the authenticity and emotional depth of the album. It’s clear that each song has been crafted with care, allowing for moments of raw, unadulterated expression that puncture the often pristine facade of studio recordings.

For fans of Americana who crave both roots and reinvention, “Jade” offers a compelling argument that looking back doesn’t mean staying put. Scott Clay has achieved a rare feat with this album: honoring the rich traditions of American music while ensuring its evolution. It’s a record that doesn’t just resonate – it reverberates with the spirit of an artist who is as much a historian as he is a sonic alchemist.

*This review was made possible by SubmitHub