Jim Keller End of the World
New York City singer-songwriter Jim Keller, the co-founder of Tommy Tutone and co-writer of “867-5309/Jenny,” releases his latest album, End Of The World, a collection of songs exploring the idea of hope in a world that appears to be unraveling.
Produced by Adam Minkoff, the album was recorded and mixed by Hector Castillo, with additional recordings by Andy Taub and Sam Wahl. “I Want To Go Back Home” was mixed by Dan Brantigan, while “End Of The World” was recorded by Merle Chornuk.
Of the dozen tracks that make up End Of The World, entry points include the opener “Love One Another,” a funky tune vaguely reminiscent of War. Layers of instrumentation and vocals infuse the tune with inviting, gleaming, big resonance.
A personal favorite because of its driving rhythm and almost-jangly guitars, “Got No Time For That” pulses with upbeat energy as Keller’s rich voice imbues the lyrics with urgency.
Brimming with gospel flavors, “I Want To Go Back Home” slows things down, traveling on a sparkling melody topped by Keller’s deliciously deep tenor, which reveals beaucoup feelings about home.
The alt-country funk of “Here I Am” sets up a tasty melody that bounces and rattles with expectancy. On “Pretending,” Keller shows off his wonderful voice, akin to a cross between Leonard Cohen and John Hiatt. It’s a grand voice, full of aching gravity, nuanced tones, and intensity.
“Lucky,” a swamp rocker, features dirty, growling guitars and Keller’s evocative phrasing, infusing the lyrics with almost nasty, grinding aromas. The album closes with “Getting Over You,” a piano and organ-driven song about the pain-filled aftermath of a breakup. There is a complexity and power to Keller’s voice that can’t be ignored.
On End Of The World, Jim Keller blends pop, rock, and country into an otherworldly genre that’s at once raw and tender.
Discover more about Jim Keller. Enjoy our interview of Jim here: Interview: Jim Keller Finds a Way To Keep On Moving at The ‘End of The World’
Players on the album include an array of talent: Keller (lead vocals, acoustic guitar, electric guitar), Adam Minkoff (drums, piano, mellotron, synth, Hammond organ), Jacob Silver and Bob Glaub on bass, Rich Hinman (electric slide guitar, pedal steel), Lee Falco (drums), Chris St. Hilaire (drums, percussion, Hammond organ, Wurlitzer, piano, backing vocals), Andy Hess (bass), David Luther (tenor saxophone), Tony Mason (drums), Akie Bermiss, Gabby Sherba, Abby Ahmad, and Tony Leone (backing vocals), Todd Caldwell (Casio), Kevin Bents (electric guitar), Bob Glaub (verse bass), and Scott Metzger (electric guitar).
Tour Dates:
November 14 – The 5 Spot – Nashville, TN
November 20 – C-Boy’s – Austin, TX
December 9 – Littlefield – Brooklyn, NY
December 12 – Colony Woodstock – Woodstock, NY
January 10 – Sweetwater Music Hall – Mill Valley, CA
January 18 – McCabe’s Guitar Shop – Los Angeles, CA
