Today, the music world is buzzing with excitement as four-time Grammy Award-winning artist Gary Clark Jr. surprises fans with a tantalizing taste of his upcoming album, JPEG RAW. Scheduled for release on March 22 via Warner Records, the album promises to be a bold step forward in Clark’s musical journey, showcasing his unparalleled talent and innovative vision.
Clark’s latest offering comes in the form of a four-track sampler, giving listeners a glimpse into the sonic landscape of JPEG RAW. The sampler features tracks such as “Maktub,” “JPEG RAW,” “This Is Who We Are,” and “Hyperwave,” each offering a unique blend of genres and influences. From rock and R&B to hip-hop and blues, Clark effortlessly weaves together a tapestry of sounds that defy categorization.
JPEG RAW marks a significant evolution in Clark’s artistic expression, as he ventures into new territory with a more cohesive synthesis of his eclectic musical universe. Drawing inspiration from a diverse range of sources, including Thelonious Monk and Sonny Boy Williamson, Clark creates a dense and adventurous sound that pushes boundaries and challenges conventions.
Lyrically, JPEG RAW is both poignant and socially conscious, with Clark delving into personal and topical themes with unflinching honesty. His occasional forays into rap and spoken word add another layer of depth to the music, showcasing his versatility as a songwriter and performer.
One of the standout tracks on the album is the co-written duet with Stevie Wonder, “What About The Children,” which feels like an instant classic with its timeless appeal and infectious groove. Other highlights include the epic 10-minute journey of “Habits,” which defies categorization and showcases Clark’s boundless creativity.
JPEG RAW comes hot on the heels of Clark’s critically acclaimed 2019 album, This Land, which solidified his status as one of the most innovative artists of his generation. With three Grammy Awards under his belt, including Best Rock Song and Best Rock Performance for the title track, Clark has proven time and again that he is a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.
