Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Press Release

For Immediate Release: Tuesday, May 24, 2011

JAKOB MARTIN RELEASES NEW ALBUM “CALIFORNIA SONGS” JUNE 28

FIRST SINGLE “WHEN IT’S TIME” OUT TODAY, ON TOUR NOW


“People seem to carry stereotypical views of California as this paradise brimming with beaches, stars, and surfers,” says Los Angeles singer-songwriter Jakob Martin. True, those things exist, but from all his travels Jakob Martin knows that that’s such a small part of the state, which is also home to empty land, farmland, desert, mountains and forest. “I saw that as a terrific metaphor – life anywhere, even in paradise, contains so much more depth, imagination, sadness, hope and intensity than people might realize.” Consequently, California Songs, Jakob’s forthcoming full-length album, is about one artist’s exploration of a life in paradise and the complications that come along with it. “The poet John Berryman was known for his ‘dream songs’ – a series of lyrical poems exploring emotions brought on by everyday events,” says Jakob. “People often talk about the California Dream, and California Songs is a play on that.”

California Songs will independently release as a digital-only album on June 28th, 2011. It follows Jakob Martin’s 2010 EP Leave The Light On, both showcasing his distinctly down-home edge of blues harp that cuts through a blend of piano-driven pop, rock and folk. Produced by Dan Diaz of Hypothetical Studios, California Songs is an attempt to explore the Californias of the mind, heart and imagination.

Today, May 24th, Jakob Martin releases the first single from the album, “When It’s Time.” A lullaby in its nature, Jakob says this song became an anthem to his own strength and a reminder to hang on because there’s always something better out there. “When It’s Time” is now available to purchase on iTunes.

For all press inquiries/requests please contact:
Laura Goldfarb at Red Boot Publicity
Laura@redbootpr.com | 617.407.7284
http://www.redbootpr.com

Thursday, May 19, 2011

Variations on a Dream

We are all variations on a dream.

Happiness. Comfort. Adventure. Pleasure. Connection. Spirit. Meaning. Euphoria. Pain. Healing. Bliss. Exploration. Curiosity. Meaning. Speed. Rat races. Heart races. Street races. Hunger. Meaning. Satiation. Touch. Sunlight. Firelight. Pride. Emptiness. Fulfillment. Vindication. Revenge. Rebirth. Desire. Sensuality. Oneness. Awe. Meaning.

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Just Keep Going

Click here to listen to me read this blog entry out loud :)

I'll never forget my first solo performance. As part of her Bat Mitzvah celebration, my friend Carly organized a talent show. I had just learned some new chords and written a song earlier that day, and, rather than playing one of the songs I had been practicing, I decided I'd attempt not only to get on stage for the first time, but to play a brand new song as well (go big or go home, right?!). I remember arriving with my little red electric guitar and seeing a girl I thought was cute, but didn't have the guts to talk to. Just wait until she hears me play, I thought.

I got onstage and completely bombed - I couldn't remember a single note of the song I'd written. And yet, as I exited stage-left after mumbling apologies to 130 family friends and avoiding eye contact with the cute girl, I still felt this rush throughout my body, and one single thought: "I've got to do that again." (I also thought I should probably practice next time). And, of course, I did get back up and do it again- about 700 times. And every time it gets better.

Persistence has become one of the most important themes of my career. It has seen me through failures, successes, and milestones. I have never regretted being persistent, regardless of the outcome. If you think it sounds cliche - you're damn right it is. All lasting cliches have withstood the test of time for good reason. My parents used to tell me to "Just Keep Going" when things got rough. "You're always closer than you may think," they'd say. My dad is still quick to remind me of this, and I love him for it.

As many of you know, last year I launched a "Listener Supported" campaign to raise the money to produce and release a new album independently. We came close to the goal, and I ended up being able to record the "Leave the Light On" EP (five songs). Over the last year, however, I've quietly continued working to finish the full album we originally set out to create. Last month, we were able to do just that, and I'm happy to announce to you that California Songs will be released online/worldwide on June 28th.

Next Tuesday, we'll be releasing the first single from the album, entitled "When It's Time", (which happens to go well with the theme of this email - booyah!). You can preview the new single online here. The second single, "California Song" will be coming out on June 7th.

I couldn't have done this without you. Thank you so much for having my back, cheering me on, and giving me the courage to just keep going.

Wednesday, May 11, 2011

The Ultimate Frontier

We settled the West. We landed on the Moon. The ultimate frontier is the human imagination. It gives us everything, and requires only our faith in return. It cannot be conquered; only discovered. It cannot be settled; only loved.