When it comes to striking a spiritually lifting chord, contemporary artist Jean Watson delivers in spades, as evidenced in her new album, Home, which will officially reach listeners tomorrow, June 24th. It is her newest release since her previous album in 2019.
The Michigan-based Christian Soprano singer uses her classically trained background in vocals and violin to bring her faith to life. Home is an album that is sure to inspire and uplift many, especially in this day and age.
The 10-track album hosts songs like “The Joy of the Lord”, “Nothing But the Blood,” and “Psalm 51,” which was co-written with Watson’s daughter.
The album’s third track, “For the Songless Hearts,” is a notable standout. It features a joyful melody with a piano backing, creating a sense of warmth. The harmonies run smoothly in a distinct way that keeps listeners swaying to this soft tune. This track is an example of Watson’s hope to bring comfort through her music and lyricism.
The title track, “Home,” is the second to last song on the record, bringing everything near-full circle. Her tender yet powerful vocals start off the track with an acoustic accompaniment that quickly makes an impact on the listener. The raw emotion through her voice and musical choice feels very personal for Watson, and translates as such for listeners.
The last track on the album,“Nella Fantasia,” was released as a single earlier this year, and is a cover of the Italian original of the same name, with music by composer Ennio Morricone and lyrics by Chiara Ferraù. Watson’s classical training and passion for music are perfectly represented in this cover. The album as a whole showcases Watson’s unique writing skills, and those of producer and music veteran Billy Smiley. It was produced at Shadowlands Music in Franklin, Tennessee.
Watson says of the album, “It was written out of a place of tremendous personal vulnerability. In fact, the original title was going to be ‘Close to Home’ because the songs hit themes which many can relate to – finding joy in the midst of pain, dealing with shame and regret from the past, growing in faith, and having hope in humanity. Though the album is disarmingly honest in its approach, it’s not the least bit “sad”. The overarching theme of the album is finding joy and contentment in all circumstances.”
In Watson’s video “Be part of Jean’s HOME-coming,” she gives fans a sneak peek into her creative routine as a working individual but also as a singer-songwriter. It is a charming insight of her home and how she uses her sanctuary to create such an album, which is only fitting.
Watson is in high demand as a conference speaker, and frequently ministers as a spokesperson for Prison Fellowship International. She also hosts a weekly radio program on United Christian Broadcasting Ireland and plays violin with the Kalamazoo Symphony.
Home is a brilliant and enriching collection of songs displaying the power of passion and faith, and Jean Watson will soon officially have another beautiful album to her name.
