Speed of Sound, the second album released by Jesse Lynn Madera following her acclaimed debut, Fortunes, in 2020, proves an artful, eclectic, fun, emotional jaunt across eleven songs. It marks her first time working with producers Dan Navarro (also his production debut) and Grammy winners Jim Scott and Ryan Hadlock.
JESSE LYNN MADERA
Speed of Sound is at once deeply intimate and widely meaningful. This sophomore release takes an even deeper dive into both her storytelling chops and her ability to convey a range of emotions vocally. Her vocal stylings tend to harken back to the Lilith Fair days of searingly empowered, vulnerable female artists and singer-songwriters. Yet the West Virginia-born, Houston-raised Madera also has the effervescent country lilt of a young Dolly at times, as well as the kick*** directness of a Linda Ronstadt study, showcased in the triumphant Sweet Pretender. Her capacity to perform with transparency and sensibility
through a vast emotional range has caused critics and peers to take note and add her to the list of ones to closely watch.
The boisterous opening track, Austin, an anthemic pedal-to-the-metal classic rock inspired tune recalling young lust, immediately signals we better buckle up for an adventure. The fast-paced start calms gracefully upon reaching the wistful and reflective second track, Last Call, a duet with co-writer Dan Navarro, sung entirely in harmony that reminds listeners of some of the best folk pop songs coming out of the 60s and 70s.
Boasting a dedicated fan base cultivated through captivating live performances, Madera's touring history includes sold out shows at New York's Bitter End and Nashville's The Bluebird. She also had notable appearances at festivals such as Mile 0, 30A, Annapolis Songwriters, and Mile of Music and was featured as a headliner for WMOT's “Finally Friday.”