We Speak Music
Jersey Calling Share New Album ‘Parasocial Security’
Punk-rock group Jersey Calling, which was founded in 2002 by Randy, Josh, and Sean, put out two albums before calling it quits in 2005. They got back together in 2020 during the pandemic, with Victoria on vocals and a new drummer. They released their third album ‘Punk Rock Retirement’ (2020) and re-released their first two albums as a double album called ‘Daddy Re-Issues’ (2021) on all streaming services. ‘Parasocial Security’, their fourth album, marks their comeback.
To date, ‘Parasocial Security’ is their most ambitious record. They examine issues of loss and loneliness while also finding comfort in the close bonds they have with one another, their friends, and their family.
All the classic punk elements are present in this ten-track album, which features a vocalist whose voice is reminiscent of the punk icons of the ‘90s, as well as power chords and catchy riffs supported by a driving bass and drumbeat.
‘Gods & Cowboys’ is about colonization – of land, of mind, and of spirit – how their history affects how they live today.
‘Content’ is about being an artist in the age of social media.
‘The Things Life Leaves Behind’ is about the loss of a loved one, and reflecting about their own mortality as they grieve.
‘Twisted Paradigm’ is about toxic relationships and knowing when and how to set boundaries.
‘Backseat Driver’ is about feeling a lack of control over one’s own life, and claiming autonomy over their decisions.
‘Mid-life Crisis’ is about aging as a musician, and how that affects their mindset and songwriting.
‘Self-Will Run Riot’ is about struggling to survive under late-stage capitalism.
‘Heartstrings’ is about finding love in the face of personal struggles and global disharmony.
‘Queen of the Unclean’ is about having agency in choosing one’s identity.
‘Hasta Luego’ is about casting off the shackles of authoritarianism and fighting against the systems of control that hold them back from their full potential.
On the album, Jersey Calling comments, “Our most ambitious album to date, ‘Parasocial Security’, explores themes of isolation and loss, while simultaneously finding solace in the personal relationships we’ve found in each other and our friends and family.”
London-based multi-instrumentalist and producer Waz-u returns with his second album, Preludes: Dusk Psalms, set for release on 16 May 2025 via independent label Biodiversity. The 15-track record further refines the artistic depth of his debut, blending electronic textures and classical compositional techniques in an intricate, immersive listening experience.
Ahead of the album release, Waz-u is dropping an exclusive vocal version of ‘Vermillion: G Major’ from the album, accompanied by its original instrumental version. ‘Vermillion’ with Lilyg will be released on 18 April 2025, evoking intimate indie-folk and pop and follows the release of a vocal version of ‘Lament’ with Tom Norrington. ‘The singles are a way to give a voice to the atmosphere of the record and to lyrically encapsulate some of the themes explored,’ explains Waz-u. ‘Lily and Tom are good friends of mine and have both been listening to early iterations of these preludes – it felt right to involve them directly on this record.’
‘Preludes: Dusk Psalms’ marks a new branch of Waz-u’s emerging sound, guided by the duality of tradition and innovation. Combining his musical roots in early ‘90s dub techno and classical music, the album weaves carefully layered synthesizers and electronics to evoke the ambience of sacred music — from the gentle timbres of a choir or an organ to the quiet, open, and reverberating spaces of a church. Also featured throughout the album is experimental musician G9 LUV, who creates textures and drones by bowing his bass guitar, resulting in cello-like sounds. The release follows Waz-u’s 2024 debut LP, Prayer For Dawn, which merged dub, techno, and electronica in an exploration of the ritualistic traditions associated with both organized religion and dance.
Bringing the album’s themes to life, Waz-u will celebrate the release of Preludes: Dusk Psalms with a special performance at Our Holy Redeemer in Clerkenwell, London on 14 May 2025. Set against the church’s resonant acoustics, the event will feature live performance arrangements, including a choir, with further details to be announced soon.
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