Jon22 (also known as Jon Berman) delivers a captivating track with Reincarnate, a standout from his latest album, Muse, released on NYC-based indie label Declared Goods. The song blends intricate musicality with thoughtful production, offering a listening experience that is both engaging and immersive.
Reincarnate opens with intriguing arpeggios layered with flanging effects and an understated organ backdrop, setting a reflective tone. A country-blues-inspired guitar line enters, complementing the multilayered vocal arrangement. The track builds with subtle energy, blending a classic songwriter vibe with nuanced production touches that keep the listener intrigued throughout.
The album, Muse, is deeply rooted in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) music scene. Recorded and mixed at Salim Nourallah’s Pleasantry Lane Studios, the project is a collaborative effort featuring contributions from some of the region’s most respected musicians. Nourallah, known for his work with the Old 97’s and Smile Smile, provides bass and backing vocals. The record also showcases guitarist Nick Earl (Polyphonic Spree, Tripping Daisy), drummer John Dufilho (The Apples in Stereo, Deathray Davies), and Chris Holt, whose impressive guitar work has supported artists like The Eagles and Bob Dylan.
Jon’s connection to the Dallas music community runs deep. “It’s a big city, but it’s a real small community of musicians,” he explains. That close-knit camaraderie is evident in the collaborative energy that fuels Muse and elevates tracks like Reincarnate. The song combines introspective storytelling with vibrant instrumentation, echoing influences from The Beatles to modern indie-folk sounds.
Jon22’s musical journey began in the back seat of his mom’s ‘67 Thunderbird, where he fell in love with music listening to her 8-track copy of Abbey Road. That early exposure to timeless songwriting shines through in Reincarnate, a track that balances nostalgic inspiration with a contemporary edge.
Muse is available now on all major streaming platforms. Whether you’re a fan of layered arrangements, thoughtful lyrics, or simply great songwriting, Reincarnate offers plenty to appreciate while showcasing Jon22’s ability to craft music that resonates.