New Music Tuesday: Vol. 9
Two EPs but no Christmas Music
No one seems to be working this week, but there is still great music to share.
Jesse Welles - All Creatures Great and Small
Known for his viral videos featuring clever, leftist rants about society supported by his strong picking and gravelly voice, Welles’ latest EP explores nature. With strong songwriting about bugs, trees and squirrels and Wells on guitar and harmonica, this EP dispenses with much of the snark and biting commentary that serves his online persona. It would be easy for such a project to slip into kitch or children’s music, but each song drips with sincerity. From start to finish, the six-song EP is incredibly refreshing.
I don’t want to be pulled into a comparison of guys filming songs on guitars outside, but it’s easy to see why some might want to do so if they only use their eyes to judge music. However, the intricacies and prolific nature of Welles’ songwriting set him apart. This album departs from the direct or veiled social commentary and dives directly into folk traditions — again differentiating himself from other outdoor-video-making guitar players. He’s also an elite picker — one more for the list of differences.
Produced and released independently, this music feels old but could only exist in the age of social media and digital production. In previous generations, a songwriter like Welles may go completely undiscovered — playing local joints, bars or coffee shops during open mics or weekend afternoons. The juxtaposition of the lyrics, presentation and music with the incredibly modern distribution method puts a smile on my face.
Welles has already sold out his entire 2025 tour. While anyone can go viral, few can sell out 24 shows months before the events. This EP does more than trade on his internet fame—it proves he is not a fluke of the short attention span era. Welles has the chops to deliver meaningful folk, country and protest music for our time, online or in person.
The Western States - Nothing Granted
The LA-based country band The Western States brings a polished, classic 90s sound to this four-song EP, which explores financial insecurity and economic disparity —super cheery themes for pop-adjacent country music.
The Western States deserve a bigger audience. They consistently release strong collections and have a wonderful stage presence. The band holds the attention of critical audiences and those who are there just for a good time, which isn’t easy when navigating this kind of music that explores these topics.
Nothing Granted could be a gateway to a larger platform, and at the very least, it deserves your full attention, even if you’re just here for a good time.
Until next Tuesday, whenever that may be.