“Love where I’ve been but the past isn’t now” – Jay Tablet from “Note to Self”.
Bend heavy-hitter Jay Tablet just dropped his new album “West Ghostin” via Bandcamp. In light of the release, Jay reached out to me to review the album and I gladly obliged. Knowing the Zonked Out artist for some time now, I’ve come to respect his grind and consistency with his music. He is always touring somewhere or sending me links to new music and is an excellent example of hard work mixed with musical talent. That being said, let’s get into it.
*Standout Tracks*
1. West Ghostin
4. Note to Self
6. 13_32
The album begins with “West Ghostin”, a groovy baseline and a hook introducing not only the title of the album but it sets the tone for the entire project as well. This is a standout song to me because Jay truly is rapping on this one. Shouts to the “Crater Lake Vodka” line too. Must keep the sponsors happy and it’s a phenomenal liquor. Dope.
“Note to Self” is probably my favorite song on the album. The Dead Giveaway produced track is a laid back evaluation of his life and surroundings. Great writing and formatting on this one with a cool multilayered hook that hits you without knowing you’re in a hook.
I’ve seen the Zonked Out standout live a few times and he is always on point. Adding to the show (hopefully) will be the other standout track of the album “13_32”. One of the only songs that I could foresee doing well on radio with an electro/hip-hop hard hitting beat and catchy hook. I hope he plans on doing this one live.
Jay’s writing and delivery seems to get better with each project but the aspect that really stands out to me is how comfortable he sounds on tracks now. It doesn’t seem forced and his laid-back persona shines through on nearly every track.
Overall, I’m impressed by the release and look forward to seeing where this project takes him. Bend, Oregon artist has a run of shows in Idaho and Utah lined up for July, then a US tour with Kytami so make sure to check him out when he’s in your city.
8/10
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