Where have you been, Jojo Gold? Eight years of silence, and now Radiate—an album that feels like a long-awaited conversation with a friend you haven’t seen in forever. Yes, this album is a revelation from someone who’s been through a lot and is now ready to share their journey.

Jojo’s music has always been special, but here it reaches new depths. The sound is rooted in indie-folk-punk, yet it carries a unique glow that’s hard to put into words. The melodies hold a cathartic power, and as you listen, you can’t help but feel a sense of release.

photo by Eric Terhaar

Her voice carries the sharpness of someone who’s had to fight to be heard. Every track radiates joy—genuine and well-earned—as she proudly claims every hard-fought moment of happiness. And her lyrics are striking in their honesty. Every line reflects lived experience, struggle, and acceptance. Jojo tells her story without embellishment, making this new album truly alive.

Beyond everything mentioned above, as a queer artist, Jojo creates a space of inclusivity. She sings about individuality and love—not just as themes, but as lived experiences, conveying the raw emotions of someone who has fought for their place and their right to be heard. That struggle echoes in the determination that runs through Radiate from start to finish.

The opening track, I Like You, greets listeners with bright country guitars and a soft acoustic sound. Everything here is simple: light, airy, with nothing unnecessary. Jojo’s voice is like a wisp of smoke—rising, fading, and leaving behind a warm, almost intimate feeling. Then comes Higher—not country anymore, but leaning into indie, melancholic and reflective. Echoes and a light haze of sounds give way to dense, stormy rock textures. Jojo’s vocals shift here, as if weathering a storm—one of those cleansing storms that leave you renewed.

The album swings genres like a pendulum, and that’s part of its charm. Hold On brings you back to joyful country vibes, where guitars and percussion playfully wink at the listener, ready to lift your spirits. Jojo’s voice feels light but carries a spark of something deeper—each line like a personal secret shared just with you. The song brings a smile and an odd urge to step into a field, spread your arms, and simply live.

photo by Eric Terhaar

The title track, Radiate, bursts with warmth and energy. Complex rhythms, layered harmonies, and backing vocals merge into a celebration, but without any pretension. As you listen, you realize—this track was made to bring warmth. The joy here is genuine, and even if the album had only this song, I’d still come back for that feeling.

Never Let You Go is intimate and homey. The guitar is simple yet precise, Jojo’s vocals tender. This is the song where you suddenly realize the whole album takes on a new depth. There’s a lot of intimate, even sensual energy here, but it doesn’t shout for attention—it’s in the details, in the pauses between words.

The final track, Your Glitter is Gold, bursts with indie rock and a touch of punk. The bass, the guitars, the transitions—they pull you out of whatever mood you’re in and make you move. This is a track about energy, power, and freedom. And when the rhythm shifts midway through, you can’t stop—you listen to the end because there’s simply no other way.

Yet, despite the weight of its themes, Jojo’s music carries an undeniable sense of joy. It’s as if she’s holding every hard-won moment of happiness with both hands. This isn’t some superficial joy; it’s the kind that comes from understanding that true freedom lies in accepting yourself and the world around you.

What else can I say about Radiate? It’s an album that doesn’t hold back, refusing to cater to anyone’s expectations. The melodies flow seamlessly, creating a complete and vivid experience. Every instrumental detail is spot-on, elevating Jojo’s voice and packing an emotional punch.

Radiate has a personality all its own. It’s full of joy, passion, and gratitude for life in all its highs and lows. It feels like home—sometimes a little messy, but always warm and inviting. Jojo Gold puts her emotions out there for us, sharing her light so we can carry a little of it with us. There’s no doubt Jojo has grown—not just as an artist, but as a person. She’s not afraid to show her vulnerable side now, and that’s her superpower. This album inspires you to embrace who you are, savor every moment, and stay true to yourself.

Listening to Radiate, I realized this is the kind of music we really need right now. With so much noise and chaos around, Jojo Gold gives us something that feels like a deep breath. Do yourself a favor and check it out—you’ll be glad you did.

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