Oliver Jordan releases new single

Based in Austin, Texas, Oliver Jordan is an intriguing and enigmatic figure who’s sonic journey stretches over two and a half decades. Shrouded in mystery, Jordan’s musical endeavours are deeply intertwined with the complexities of his mental health, a source of both inspiration and profound struggle throughout his life.

In 1996, Jordan dropped his debut album, Ten Suicidal Tunes, a spontaneous lo-fi masterpiece recorded impulsively on his then-girlfriend’s modified answering machine in a marathon twenty-four-hour session. His creative process, however, was haunted by delusions, including hallucinations of a troll residing behind the sound hole of his acoustic guitar, delivering disparaging comments on his songwriting skills. The recording studio became the backdrop for a tragic episode, marked by a failed suicide attempt.

This bleak chapter led to his confinement in a mental health facility, where an unusual incident unfolded. Reportedly, Jordan met his demise in a bizarre accident bypass choking on a set of false teeth concealed in a dessert by another patient. As the peculiar circumstances surrounding his supposed death raised questions, rumours circulated that it might have been an elaborate ruse to facilitate his escape to Europe, where he intended to showcase his sonic talents as a busker.

While the veracity of these claims remains uncertain, Jordan resurfaced in 2020, resuming his studio project. With the release of his sophomore LP, Prisoner Of Mind and subsequent singles and EPs, including The Black Sheep and last year’s full-length record, Songs in the Key of Crazy, Jordan adds another layer to his mysterious story with the new single, “Secret 13,” lifted from his forthcoming new album.

Serving up a superb display of his original style, with “Secret 13,” Oliver Jordan crafts a beat-driven alternative sound unlike anything else. Kicked off the deep fuzzy grit of distorted guitar, delicate acoustic plucks and the a rising sonic swell, the beat drops to usher in a powerful rhythmic groove. With the thump of kick and snap of snare, smooth brass leads cap the mix before the arrangement softens to make room for the artist’s vocals.

Threading emotive leads, joined by the gentle touch of synths as the ever-present strums of acoustic guitar and relentless punch of drums is cut with elements of electric guitar pick scraps. Capturing a sound that’s at once energising, immersive and moving, “Secret 13” deliver another stellar dose of Oliver Jordan’s unique sonic vision while building excitement for his upcoming full-length record.

Listen to Secret 13 below

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