Jon Batiste - WE ARE (Album Review)
By: Trevor Siebold IG/Twitter: @barelytrev
After waiting (im)patiently on our end, Jon Batiste’s new album hit stores this weekend. To say ‘WE ARE’ excited is an understatement! This 13-track project is a beautiful embodiment of Jon’s musical journey, and a wonderful addition to his already legendary list of accomplishments.
I got the chance to be on a Zoom call with Jon Batiste a few weeks back and talk about the album. I asked him what the meaning and inspiration behind the title ‘WE ARE’ was. His simple response? “WE ARE is about us. You and me. The people.” Jon spoke about how this album is a representation of us as humans, and how we are the change, and we are the ones who can make a difference in the world.
I can hear that message in the music to no end! Not to mention the insanely unique blend of soul, jazz, hip-hop and countless other draws of inspiration that grew into this project. I love how each song carries its own personality, while an overall cohesiveness of storytelling and emotion lingers over the album as a whole. It’s like reading pages of Jon’s diary; we as listeners get this intimate glimpse inside his mind and outlook on life. I’ll definitely have this on repeat for awhile to come, and once you hear it, you will too!
Favorite Song: SING
Lyrics That Stick:
“When I’m cold and tired
And so uninspired
Don’t you know I’ll sing”
