RB Writer Picks: Breakout Artists of 2024
December 20, 2024
December 20, 2024
Albums are a labor of love and offer a glimpse into an artist’s universe where they create entirely new worlds. With a full-length album, an artist can truly flex their creative muscles, crafting a more cohesive piece compared to a single or an EP. Because of that, an EDM album is often dynamic, exploring different facets of an artist’s style beyond just their primary genre.
Welcome to “The Greatest Album by Album” series, where we dive into albums that I believe belong in the top echelon of the industry.
G Jones – Paths – Released in 2023
G Jones is a true innovator, constantly pushing the boundaries of what electronic music can be. He refuses to conform to the norm, and his discography reflects that. For someone new to G Jones, his tracks might initially seem like a disorganized mix of different elements. But as you listen more closely—or experience him live—you’ll realize that G Jones is a master at curating unique sounds and beats into a cohesive whole. It’s much like a charcuterie board, where many different ingredients come together to create something that just hits. G Jones is a true musician through and through, and his latest full-length album, Paths, is a huge testament to that.
In my opinion, Paths is one of the best albums of all time. The flow, the sound design, and every detail in between is executed with high levels of intention and artistry. The album kicks off with a sonic landscape of glitchy sounds, laying the foundation for the immersive world you’re about to enter. Right after that, G Jones hits us with two of the album’s standout tracks. “Too Far Gone” is a glitch masterpiece, with sharp yet smooth melodies of short, staccato notes flurrying over the listener. “Which Way” is an incredible space bass/trap hybrid, with glitchy sounds that create a melody fading in and out over a powerful trap beat, assaulting the senses.
A true standout is “Liminality”—and honestly, I’m almost at a loss for words to describe it. This track has a trap foundation, with huge beat patterns that exude power, while a funky beat structure drives the song forward in a way that feels both fresh and captivating. The album ends on a high note with “Long Walk Home”, a wave beat track that showcases G Jones’ ability to craft a near-continuous “drop” that guides the listener home.
I’ll be the first to admit that G Jones isn’t for everyone. But if you have an open mind and come in with no expectations, I’d bet you’ll be surprised at just how incredible G Jones truly is. I’m praying every day for him to come back to Arizona, because nothing hits quite like a live G Jones show!
Connect with G Jones: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Spotify | SoundCloud