It’s been five years since Gary Clark Jr. released This Land. Now Clark returns with his highly anticipated album, JPEG Raw. While Gary is rooted in the blues he’s always pushed the envelope and the boundaries of the genre. JPEG RAW is no different.
Gary said, “Blues will always be my foundation. But that’s just scratching the surface. I’m also a beat maker and an impressionist who likes to do different voices. I’ve always loved theater and being able to tell a story. At home when I play the trumpet, I think Lee Morgan, or John Coltrane when I play the sax. I’ve even got bagpipes just in case I need them. So while this is my most honest and vulnerable album about relating to the human condition, it’s also the most freeing.”
JPEG Raw opens with “Maktub,” which is one of the singles released on the sampler pack. Featuring a fuzzy guitar riff and a great beat, it’s one of the album’s standout tracks. The title track is a hip-hop track sprinkled with bluesy guitar licks and a catchy chorus. “Don’t Start” featuring Valerie June brings in the harmonica and is another example of meshing blues with modern sounds.
“This is Who We Are Now” has an epic feel and while it’s more in the hip-hop direction it’s one of the standout songs from the album and has a great guitar solo. Keyon Harold joins Gary on “Alone Together” for a jazzy soul number. Guests are prominent on JPEG RAW and Stevie Wonder teams with Clark on “What About The Children.” “Hearts in Retrograde” is a funky rocker with more of the fuzzy guitar that Gary is known for.
“Hyperwave” is another album highlight with Gary masterfully blending styles.”Funk Witch U” features George Clinton and is, you guessed it, pretty funky. “Triumph” is a cut that hits deep where Clark sings about turning tragedy into triumph. JPEG RAW wraps up with “Habits” which clocks in over 9 minutes. Gary performed this song at Eric Clapton’s Crossroads Guitar Festival in September of 2023. It’s a more stripped back approach where Clark gets personal.
JPEG RAW is far from a traditional blues album but there is definitely something for all types of music fans. One of Gary’s strengths has always been his versatility and that’s certainly on display here.
The Review: 8/10
Can’t Miss Tracks
– Maktub
– This Is Who We Are
– Hyperwave
– Triumph
– Habits
The Big Hit
– Maktub
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