It wasn’t a tiny moment as my finger touched down on the space bar, and a type of indie music that was subtle and unassuming did a slow crawl into my ears. I took a deep yoga breath, didn’t wait to exhale, and listened. And listened.
It is clear from the start that Jonah Kagen is an old soul who has picked a vibe and stuck with it. A multifaceted artist with a voice that is equal parts gentle and nurturing, this 23-year-old from Georgia grabbed that proverbial torch from Bob Dylan and Joan Baez and launched the crowd-pleasing EP The Roads.
From an early age, it was evident that Jonah Kagen had a calling for music. When he was six, he was encouraged by his jazz musician grandfather to play guitar and learn Led Zeppelin for his mother. With a passion that burned brightly over the years to come, this Cornell Alumni committed time and effort to honing his craft as a musician, singer, and songwriter.
Skillfully produced, this EP features six songs, each with its own emotional beat. Though the space is not very crowded for this type of singer and soft tracks, Jonah carved out his own place with his acoustic-driven sound and heartfelt musings.
Each track on the EP tells a story, inviting listeners on a journey of self-discovery, introspection, and some harsh realities of love and relationships. From the anthem “Pollution” to the introspective and thought-provoking “Save My Soul,” Jonah’s songs have the skills to resonate with a myriad of audiences on a deeply emotional level.
Any listener will immediately recognize that his experience as a musician extends beyond his years. Jonah’s maturity and depth shine through his music despite his young age. His ability to convey complex emotions with a compassionate force is a testament to his immense talent as a songwriter and performer.
As it turns out, the tracks get remarkably better as they move along, and familiar beats are hammered in a way you don’t mind. Jonah allows his guitar playing to linger in the air like a moment of personal interaction. Jonah succeeds at being a compassionate force as The Road unfolds.
Featured Photo Credit: David O’Donohue