Jesse Kivel Announces New Album “Life And Death At Party Rock”

Los Angeles-based musician Jesse Kivel has announced his forthcoming album, Life and Death at Party Rock, set for release on November 10th, 2023, via New Feelings. Shedding the intricate layers of electronic sound, Kivel turns to a rawer, acoustic ambiance for this latest offering.

The lead single, “I Sat on a Ridge,” is a mesmerizing exploration of reflection and place, depicting a specific ridge in midcoast Maine. The song is a meld of gentle guitar strums, atmospheric backdrops, and Kivel’s striking vocal clarity. Sam Wilkes’ rare upright bass performance adds a rich depth to the composition. In the track, Kivel sings, “Meet my son, and lead him in. Life and death, and back again.” The accompanying music video, directed by Irene Yadaeo, portrays a minimalistic campsite in Maine, accompanied by members of the Colonial Maine Living History Association.

Watch Jesse Kivel “I Sat On A Ridge” Music Video Below

“Party Rock” stands as a testament to eons of changing tides and the fleeting nature of life. Kivel’s lyrics, imbued with reflections on fatherhood, are poignantly captured in lines like, “It’s a comedy / it’s a tragedy.” Another standout track, “Overgrown Ocean,” dives deep into themes of mortality, while “Nepenthe” grapples with the challenges and revelations that come with aging.

Joey Genetti’s production touch is evident throughout the album, which also boasts contributions from artists including Sam Wilkes, Joseph Shabason, Kacey Johansing, Dylan Day, and Matt Popieluch. The album’s final track, the instrumental “Hunting with Shawn,” is a hauntingly beautiful dreamscape, wrapping up Kivel’s sonic journey.

Life and Death at Party Rock Tracklist

1. I Sat on a Ridge
2. Overgrown Ocean
3. Nepenthe
4. Age of Man
5. A Lightforce feat. Joseph Shabason
6. Bayshore Bowl
7. Beech Hill Meditation
8. Puzzles in the Grass
9. Broke the Spell
10. Hunting With Shawn

Additionally, Jesse Kivel will be touring in November with performances in Brooklyn, Rockland, and Kittery.

Jesse Kivel 2023 North America. Tour Dates

Fri. Nov. 3 – Brooklyn, NY @ Sultan Room w/ Shirley Hurt (tickets)
Sat. Nov. 4 – Rockland, ME @ Donna’s Church w/ Shirley Hurt (tickets)
Sun. Nov. 5 – Kittery, ME @ Buoy Gallery w/ Shirley Hurt (tickets)

For more information on Jesse Kivel, to pre-order your copy of Life and Death at Party Rock, or to get tickets to any of his upcoming tour dates, visit his website here.