‘This Is Where We Landed’

The most infectious beat around town is right here with Josh Jensen and his latest release, This Is Where We Landed, and we wanted to share some really great highlight moments of this incredibly impressive album with you.

Starting with “Birdhouse (feat. Matthew O’Toole, Alex Capron & Evan Earhart),” the opening sound of a cheering live audience immediately signals that Jensen is a crowd favorite. The moment he steps on stage, the energy is electric, setting the tone for what’s to come. As the mandolin and lively rhythm kick in, it’s clear that this is going to be a true down-home, foot-stomping experience. But it’s not until Jensen’s vocals emerge that we realize we’re in for something truly special. His delivery is stunning, warm, infectious, and undeniably captivating. The layered instrumentation builds beautifully until we arrive at the striking line:

“Never thought I’d fly again / to the side of town.”

It’s a breathtaking moment, an Americana-bluegrass high that leaves you momentarily spellbound. Once you catch your breath, you’ll be just as in love with this song as we are.

This track captures the essence of what makes a song timeless. Jensen’s smooth, soulful delivery is irresistibly engaging, and the dynamic interplay between the instruments keeps the momentum thrilling. When the music briefly pauses early on, there’s a split second of withdrawal, only for the beat to return stronger than ever, sending the audience into rapturous applause. The guitar work is masterful, oscillating between the forefront and the background, seamlessly weaving through the vocals to create a truly immersive experience.

The hushed harmonies in the background add an extra layer of sonic intrigue, particularly as the lyrics describe how “blood turns whiskey into wine.” Just when we think the track has reached its peak, the horns make a surprise entrance, an unexpected but impeccably executed addition that takes the song to another level. The precision and musicality are astounding, and the featured artists elevate the performance into something truly unforgettable.

Next up, “The Circus is in Town (feat. Alex Capron)” brings a jazz-infused energy, with twinkling guitar work and a rhythmic, punchy beat that perfectly supports Jensen’s more intimate and soulful vocal delivery. The lyrics, painting vivid images of flaming monkeys setting the circus ablaze, create a unique and almost mischievous narrative. There’s a playful yet technically refined execution here, with beautifully sustained notes that highlight Jensen’s vocal prowess. The horns provide a rich, infectious backdrop that enhances the theatricality of the piece, making this an undeniable standout.

“Dusty Roads and Broken Dreams (feat. Sunnie Larsen)” shifts gears with a more poignant storytelling approach. Here, the violins take center stage, adding an evocative depth to a tale of laboring in the fields, being distracted by a love interest, and grappling with broken dreams. The lyricism is compelling, exploring themes of hardship, betrayal, and the emotional toll of life’s unpredictability. Jensen delivers these narratives with raw sincerity, making the song feel both deeply personal and universally relatable. The portrayal of violence and love’s profound impact underscores the authenticity of the storytelling, leaving a lasting impression.

Finally, “Wanderlust Highway (feat. Alex Capron)” is a vocal masterpiece, seamlessly blending Americana influences with an R&B ballad feel. The opening guitar licks immediately draw you in, while the sparkling piano arrangement adds an element of elegance. The instrumentation is captivating, but it’s Jensen’s vocal cadence and intonation that truly steal the show. His delivery is effortlessly emotive, making each lyric resonate with striking intensity.

“You’re lost on the wanderlust highway again / Throw your love in the backseat / Roll with the wind.”

It’s exhilarating, a performance that demands attention and lingers long after the song ends. This track is a prime example of Jensen’s ability to merge genres while maintaining a sound that feels both classic and refreshingly original.

We absolutely loved This Is Where We Landed, and if you appreciate the raw energy of live performances, emotion-driven vocals, and masterfully crafted musicianship, this album is a must-listen. Josh Jensen has delivered something remarkable, and we have no doubt that fans will be coming back to these songs time and time again.

Josh Jensen’s third solo album, This Is Where We Landed, is a deeply personal work that explores themes of love, family, loss, and the search for meaning. Inspired by his wife’s battle with breast cancer, the album transforms personal hardships into compelling storytelling, infused with raw emotion and authenticity.

Drawing influences from legends like The Band and contemporary artists such as Lianne La Havas, Jensen crafts an Americana sound that is both nostalgic and fresh. The album consists of nine original tracks and a remix, each showcasing his keen sense of narrative and melody. Songs like “Birdhouse” and “Dusty Roads and Broken Dreams” exemplify his ability to blend evocative lyricism with rich instrumentation, making this collection a standout in the genre.

Recorded in 2024 at Luke Rain Studios in Seattle, the album was produced and engineered by longtime collaborator Luke Rain. Jensen and Rain’s musical partnership spans nearly two decades, and their deep creative synergy is evident throughout the album. Late-night recording sessions brought together an impressive roster of guest musicians, including Alex Capron and Evan Earhart on horns, Sunnie Larsen on violin, Matthew O’Toole on mandolin and bass, and Shauna Ward on guitar and vocals. Each artist adds their own signature touch, elevating the album’s sonic depth.

Jensen’s musical journey has been shaped by his time with the band Sweet Beets, an influence that carries through on this album, particularly in the dynamic horn arrangements. His decision to transition from recording his previous album, Moon Time, on a phone to working in a professional studio underscores his evolution as an artist, with Rain serving as both mentor and producer throughout the process.

This Is Where We Landed is being released through Bellingham-based Washingtones Records, with physical distribution ensuring fans can experience the album in multiple formats. In an eco-conscious move, vinyl editions are being pressed by Good Neighbor Records using innovative PET technology to create fully recyclable records, blending sustainability with high-quality sound.

With this release, Josh Jensen cements his place as a powerful voice in modern Americana, proving that even in life’s most challenging moments, music remains a beacon of resilience and expression.

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This Is Where We Landed by Josh Jensen.

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