Have you ever wanted to be wrapped up in a song or a voice? Jaik Yanez’s music will no doubt have this effect on you. The smooth crispness of his voice, combined with his genius on a guitar, is reminiscent of musicians like John Mayer and Jason Mraz. The difference is the dark magic that seems to be woven within Yanez’s songs, especially within the beautiful imagery of his storytelling.
His only released album, Yesteryears, may only have a handful of songs, but they are filled with a richness that sates the soul while leaving the ears begging for more. The first song on the album I had the pleasure to listen to, Petrichor, speaks of the bitterness of falling out of love. The pauses in the song become as important as negative space within an art piece and add to the depth of the music. The next song I listened to was First Flame, a story of the difficulty of letting go. Yanez uses an exquisite metaphor of fire and natural elements to explain the pain of holding on.
Sometimes only a sad song has the ability to speak to us. Marooned is the perfect slow tune that speaks of desperation and loss in such a way that pulls at your heart. Everyone, I’m sure, has felt lost or abandoned at some point in their lives, and this song is an amazing metaphor that speaks to pain of all kinds. The use of piano emphasizes the peak of the song and the desperation that is so apparent in Yanez’s voice.
Friends and Enemies uses the addition of drums and a faster beat that has its listeners easily swaying to the story of retribution. The language of the song combined with the upbeat tempo allow what could have easily been a ballad turn into something more like a “fuck you” to the unfaithful. The clever wording within the song showcases Yanez’s unique songwriting abilities.
My favorite song on the album would have to be Adder. The violin in combination with the sinful imagery of the story has a way of causing goosebumps to spread across your arms. This song, in particular, seems to surround its listener with a smoky atmosphere that makes you want to close your eyes and dance with the devil. The deep, quiet voice Yanez uses during this song is like a tempting whisper to the darkness that lies in all of us.
“Jaik Yanez is a Singer/Songwriter from San Antonio, TX. Jaik has been playing for over a decade with various bands, but has recently decided to devote his energy to his solo endeavors.
Jaik's style is one that emphasizes meaningful lyrics, descriptive language, and an honest presentation with his unique style of singing. He draws inspiration from observing people living their day to day lives and listening to the stories of strangers.
Although his career is just beginning, he is off to an auspicious start. He is ecstatic to present his interpretations of struggle, loss, triumph, and love to you.”
This excerpt comes from Yanez’s website: www.jaikyanez.com
You can also check him out on his media links: