Jordan Duffy discusses her latest album “Nights Like These”, extraterrestrial beings, and her captivating music videos in an interview.
Jordan Duffy, a talented singer-songwriter originally from Massachusetts now residing in Los Angeles, has recently unveiled her latest album, ‘Nights Like These’. This collection of ten songs showcases her ability to blend emotions seamlessly into a tapestry of captivating sounds that are both personal and expansive. One standout track is the title song, ‘Nights Like These’, characterized by its 80s-inspired synth pop vibe. Haunting lyrics such as “Please hold me tight / Please don’t let me go / I’m so terrified” resonate with listeners, complemented by a spine-chilling saxophone solo and Jordan’s powerful vocal delivery. Another noteworthy track is ‘Stay With Me’, a beautifully crafted folky singer-songwriter piece that serves as an ode to love, complete with romantic melodies and lush acoustic guitar arrangements. ‘Not Your Dream Girl’, a lively and vibrant pop song, stands out as one of the top tracks of the year with its catchy chorus and impeccable production by Party Nails. Delving into her rock influences, Jordan unleashes her inner rockstar with ‘CMF’, a retro rock n’ roll number reminiscent of iconic artists like Pat Benatar and Heart. Overall, ‘Nights Like These’ offers a captivating musical journey from start to finish.
Our discussion with Jordan Duffy revolves around her latest album, captivating music videos, noteworthy collaborators, and her fascination with extraterrestrial beings.
Congratulations on the release of your new album, ‘Nights Like These’. Could you shed light on the various themes explored in this new endeavor?
Thank you! The central theme of the album revolves around those late-night musings that often keep us awake, hence the apt title, ‘Nights Like These’. Each track delves into a range of emotions – from reminiscing about past heartbreaks and navigating new love to desire, frustration, and indignation. Interestingly, each song was born out of those restless nights when my mind was consumed by profound reflections on significant moments in my life.
How does ‘Nights Like These’ differ from your previous musical works?
‘No Big Deal’, which was released in 2023, marked my first EP, showcasing the initial collaboration between myself and my producer, Party Nails. The growth and evolution of our partnership and sound are evident in ‘Nights Like These’. This album truly embodies me – my personal experiences, thoughts, vulnerabilities, and aspirations – presenting my songs in the raw and authentic form that I envisioned. It exudes a sense of maturity and confidence, with even the most melancholic tracks embodying strength and resolve in my vocals, showcasing my evolved approach to music-making.
Your music traverses various genres and veers towards the unconventional. Can you elaborate on your artistic and creative influences and how they manifest in ‘Nights Like These’?
I approach each song as a unique narrative, seeking to evoke specific emotions and responses from the audience. This ethos has guided me in crafting distinct and diverse tracks that seamlessly blend together in this cohesive album. While not every song mirrors the pop punk/rock style of tracks like ‘Means’ and ‘CMF’, which draw inspiration from artists like Avril Lavigne, Olivia Rodrigo, and Styx, each song is a deliberate exploration of various influences. For instance, ‘Let Me Down’ initially began as a slow-paced ballad until Party Nails drew inspiration from ‘Echo Beach’ by Martha And The Muffins, transforming it into the dynamic track it is today. Artists such as Twenty One Pilots, Yola, and Charlie XCX have also played a significant role in shaping the album’s eclectic sound. My academic background, focused on the viability of artists successfully dabbling in multiple genres, has driven me to challenge conventional norms and push boundaries in my music.
Collaborating with talented individuals like producer Party Nails and renowned musicians has undoubtedly enriched the sonic landscape of your album. How did these collaborators contribute to the musical tapestry of ‘Nights Like These’?
Working closely with Party Nails has been nothing short of extraordinary. She possesses a remarkable ability to not only understand but also execute my intricate thoughts and ideas flawlessly. Her wizardry with synths elevates the songs to new heights, adding a unique dimension to each track. Additionally, enlisting the talents of Tara McLeod, guitarist for Kittie, on ‘CMF’ injected a raw and electrifying energy into the song, reminiscent of rock icons like Styx and Queen. The collaboration with Trey Magnifique for the alto sax solo on ‘Nights Like These’ was a stroke of genius, as his improvisations added a whole new layer of depth and intensity to the track. I feel incredibly fortunate to have worked with such gifted artists on this project, each of whom brought their own magic to the album.
Amongst the myriad of exceptional tracks on ‘Nights Like These’, do you have any personal favorites, and if so, what makes them stand out for you?
Choosing favorites from this album