Jonsjooel’s new EP, Voices Of A First Day, is a fascinating journey into the boundless intersection of folk, jazz, and electronica—a sonic tribute to our spiritual ties with nature. Following on from the contemplative Goodbye Ah and the meditative Somewhere Else Than Here, Jonsjooel expands his musical horizons to create a rich, atmospheric tapestry that feels as much a meditation on the world as it is a musical statement. Inspired by Robert Lawlor’s Voices of the First Day, which explores the harmonious relationship of Australia’s Aboriginal populations with the earth, Jonsjooel channels those themes into a work that feels reverent and exploratory.
The EP's lead track, “So Many Ways,” dives deeply into its own complex themes, merging weighty tones with an exquisite sense of restraint. Here, Jonsjooel’s vocals weave a narrative of time, reflection, and missed opportunities, letting the music carry a sense of raw, almost cinematic tension. As he describes, the track “feels divided” and “on the edge of a total collapse”—a precarious balance that lends “So Many Ways” an intriguing unpredictability. Each note, tuned with intentional fragility, feels like it's holding the composition together in a delicate, emotional standoff.
Watch the video for "So Many Ways" here:
This EP builds on the deeply introspective foundation Jonsjooel laid in his debut solo album, Lullabies for Younger Self, which released in October 2023 and was inspired by his late grandmother’s comforting presence in his life. With Voices Of A First Day, he continues to blend themes of self-compassion, forgiveness, and connection to the natural world, creating music that feels like a cathartic conversation with the listener.
With Voices Of A First Day, Jonsjooel has delivered an evocative, genre-blurring project that resonates with listeners seeking both comfort and contemplation. The EP finds its strength in its soft power—an invitation to not only listen but to reflect, making it a standout addition to Jonsjooel’s evolving body of work.
Stream 'Voice Of A First Day' in full here: