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An Interview With Jennifer K. Austin
A new full length album from Jennifer K. Austin touches on several genres and gets personal as this seasoned songwriter crosses folk into pop while reaching into country, Americana, singer songwriter, and more during the albums 10 track course.
The Journey album's beautiful acoustic backbone, passionate vocal performances and a mix of natural and digital instrumentation gives the record a unique and outside the box feel while songs still have the ability to sound familiar and comfortable.
Songs are brutally honest and upfront lyrically and each song has something new to bring to the table. There are surprises around each corner and with each one Austin shines a bit brighter.
Piano ballads that grow into cinematic soundscapes, and emotionally driven rock songs give the album life. love and color.
This is a vibrant record and it's like reading someone's diary as it keeps you floating in its aether. You relate to songs and can understand and feel the pain and love behind most songs.
Journey is exactly that.It's a journey. And it's one you can really get swept away in but it feels good to do it. It is fulfilling and satisfying and by the end of the record you feel like rising up through your struggles and taking the day. Taking the moment.
A wonderfully woven record with a vibrant soul, Journey was a big one to soak in.
With such a huge record, we wanted to have a sit down with Jennfier to talk about where this record came from and what's next for her.
TSWS: Okay so let's start with the Journey album. This record is a brilliant array of genres that you managed to meld together on one album and make it all seamless. Where did this record come from?
This record came from my more recent life story which had many downs and many ups including the birth of my son who is everything to me.
TSWS: I hear singer-songwriter, folk, country, Americana, pop, and more! With so many styles going on what bands or artists really influenced you?
Believe it or not Whitney Houston is my all time favourite singer/performer who I wish I had the chance to go watch/ sob at one of her concerts but I shall sob watching her recorded performances in the privacy of my home.
TSWS: Some of these songs feel pretty personal. Did this album come out how you wanted? Are you happy with it? (You should be)
These songs are incredibly personal. There's not one on the album that isn't me. I found writing this album was one of the most healing things I could have done for myself and I still feel everything I wrote when I listen, rehearse and perform. I couldn't be happier with it and I am so proud which is such a challenging thing for me to do as I am my absolute worst critic.
TSWS: How did all of this start for you? A little whisper told me you have to write this album. So I listened.
What kind of things inspire you to write? Tough things I go through is a clear answer haha but no I get inspired watching amazing singer/songwriters including some of the students I coach that are in the industry. In my notes on my phone I have a list of one liners I have said randomly with friends or at work and I HAVE to write these nuggets of gold as there is a song in each one.
TSWS: What's next for you as an artist?
Great question... keep an eye out as I left my crystal ball in 2020- more seriously I haven't thought about my next step as I'm still sharing this album across the globe
TSWS: You've dropped some killer videos along with a few of these songs. Seems like the whole thing has been a big undertaking. What sort of advice would you have for up and coming artists out there?
Massive and especially because I am a self funded indie artist with full creative control which is something I am proud to show in my work. Also covid made this journey longer to finish but well worth the breaks. My advice- if you have that passion and you feel like this is your dream or future do it. No questions asked. You can not die with your music still left in you. This is your legacy and no one can take that away from you.
TSWS: Did you used to play live? Will you be focusing on live performances again when the time comes?
Funny enough I have a gig tomorrow which I am incredibly grateful for as I live in New Zealand where live music is still happening.
TSWS: What are you doing when you're NOT working on music? Acting or playing Tennis.
Before we go, what would you want to say to fans of the music? I hope this album touches you in some sort of way. Hope it feels like a security blanket when you need or a pick me up when you are down. I hope it's everything for you as it was for me.