Jessie Kilguss – Howard Johnson’s
Howard Johnson’s is an emotional, concept album inspired by books, cinema, and visual art. It was engineered, produced, mixed, and mastered by Charlie Nieland (Debbie Harry, Rufus Wainwright, Blondie, Scissor Sisters) at Saturation Point Studios in Brooklyn. According to Kilguss, many of these songs were inspired by works like Elena Ferrante’s The Lost Daughter and Neapolitan Quartet, Dog Day Afternoon, and Bernini’s The Ecstasy of St. Teresa. The album’s title takes its inspiration from the opening track, an unexpected tribute to her late father Howard, which provides an ethically focused character. Kirk Schoenherr, John Kengla, Andrea Longato, Rob Heath, Dave Derby, and Rembert Block are among the collaborators who contribute to the album’s unique sound. The title track “Howard Johnson’s” begins with acoustic guitar and evolves slowly into a bluesy, classic-rock-influenced groove that complements Kilguss’ warm, folk-influenced vocal performance. As the song develops, it expands into indie folk style, driven by carefree melodies and expressive narration. “St. Teresa in Ecstasy” continues with acoustic warmth and a soft, nostalgic folk vibe, enhanced by modern, cinematic production arrangements, wide stereo audio spectrum, and reverb, creating a dream-pop haze that captures the song’s spiritual majesty. “Fool’s Fight” changes the tone with a funky, energetic rhythm and a pop-oriented sound that emphasizes the beauty and clarity of the vocal melodies. Additionally, “Chasing Down a Ghost” has a strong Neil Young vibe, combining nostalgic guitar lines with a folk structure and a dreamy, storytelling voice that seems dramatic, filled with late-’60s nostalgia. “Lost Causes” starts with bass and acoustic textures, then places Kilguss’ voice clearly in the center of the mix; the arrangement remains controlled, allowing her powerful performance to lead the song easily. The album concludes with “Jesus Was a Cross Maker,” a Judee Sill cover performed with gentle acoustic warmth that recalls the spirit of classic folk music while emphasizing the album’s themes of fragility, beauty, and tenderness. Howard Johnson’s is eventually a deep, highly personal collection, based in folk traditions but broadened through cinematic production and lyrical depth, presenting Jessie Kilguss as a composer who is not afraid to combine melancholy with broader cultural and spiritual references.
photo by Shervin Lainez
https://jessiekilguss.bandcamp.com
