JWords, the Modern Jersey-based producer and educator, is set to release her second solo album, Sound Therapy, on May 8th. The forthcoming record marks a new chapter for the artist, representing her first time taking the lead on vocals for a project. The announcement comes with the release of the lead single, “Lush,” available now for streaming. This new work from JWords builds on the foundation laid by her critically acclaimed 2022 debut, Self-Connection, and offers a continuation of her exploration into sonic landscapes designed for introspection and healing.
Sound Therapy isn’t simply a collection of tracks; it’s a reflection of personal growth. Jennifer Hernandez, the artist behind JWords, recently turned 30, a milestone she describes as leaving behind a turbulent period and entering “an era of peace.” This personal evolution is woven into the fabric of the album, promising a deeply personal and resonant listening experience. The album’s creation follows a period of significant artistic activity for JWords, who also performs as one half of the duo H31R alongside Brooklyn rapper Maassai. Their most recent album, Headspace, released in 2023, further demonstrates JWords’ versatility and collaborative spirit.
A Collaborative Vision
While Sound Therapy showcases JWords’ vocal debut, the album isn’t a solitary endeavor. The project features contributions from two notable artists: Kingsley Ibeneche and Nappy Nina. Nappy Nina’s presence is particularly noteworthy, as JWords previously produced Nina’s 2021 record, Double Down, solidifying a creative partnership built on mutual respect and artistic synergy. The inclusion of these collaborators suggests a broadening of JWords’ sonic palette and a willingness to explore new vocal textures within her established electronic soundscapes.
From Self-Connection to Sound Therapy
JWords’ journey as a solo artist began with Self-Connection, an album that garnered attention for its intricate sound design and emotional depth. The album was included in Pitchfork’s “26 Great Records You May Have Missed: Winter 2022,” highlighting its impact and critical reception. Sound Therapy appears to be a natural progression from that work, delving further into themes of healing and self-discovery. The shift towards incorporating her own vocals suggests a desire for even greater intimacy and directness in her artistic expression.
Exploring the Tracklist
The tracklist for Sound Therapy offers a glimpse into the album’s sonic architecture. The nine songs are:
- LOtus
- LUSH
- void 222
- Gr8ful
- Clarity ft. Nappy Nina
- FELT
- LoveCrime
- Change 101
- Break Me ft. Kingsley Ibeneche
The titles themselves evoke a sense of introspection and emotional exploration, hinting at the album’s overall thematic concerns. The inclusion of featured artists on “Clarity” and “Break Me” suggests these tracks may represent particularly poignant moments within the album’s narrative.
A Producer Rooted in Craft
Beyond her work as JWords, Jennifer Hernandez is a multifaceted artist. She is also a dedicated educator and synth builder, demonstrating a deep reverence for the technical and creative aspects of music production. This commitment to the craft is evident in the “soothing frequencies + enchanting melodies” that define her work, as described by one supporter on Bandcamp. Her approach to music-making isn’t simply about creating sounds; it’s about crafting experiences that resonate with listeners on a deeper level.
Sound Therapy is available for pre-order now as a digital album, with purchasers receiving one track immediately and the full album upon its release on May 8th. The album is being self-released by JWords, allowing her to maintain complete creative control over her vision. Fans can also find JWords’ music and updates on Bandcamp, where she actively engages with her community.
The release of Sound Therapy marks an exciting new phase in JWords’ career. With her vocal debut and continued commitment to sonic exploration, the album promises to be a compelling and deeply personal work. The next step for JWords will be the full release of Sound Therapy on May 8th, offering listeners a chance to experience the culmination of her artistic journey.
What are your initial thoughts on the lead single, “Lush”? Share your reactions and anticipation for the full album in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this article with fellow music lovers!
