Album Overview

My Morning Jacket, a band often associated with the jam band genre yet known for their Southern rock roots, has released their tenth studio album titled Is. This new work marks a significant shift, as the band enlisted renowned producer Brendan O’Brien—famous for his collaborations with icons like Pearl Jam and Bruce Springsteen—to guide the production. This collaboration has resulted in a sound that feels rejuvenating and succinct compared to the band’s previous, more expansive offerings.

Track Highlights

In contrast to their self-titled 2021 album, which featured several tracks exceeding seven minutes, Is maintains a tight runtime, with no songs delving beyond five minutes. The album opens with “Out In the Open,” which features evocative lyrics reminiscent of a romantic proposal set against a seaside backdrop. Accompanied by a mesmerizing acoustic guitar, the track evolves into an upbeat rock anthem.

Another standout track, “Half a Lifetime,” showcases a dream-pop quality infused with classic rock, while “Everyday Magic” juxtaposes reflections on everyday life with a catchy Rolling Stones-like riff. The song “Squid Ink” incorporates an industrial thread with a bluesy finish, drawing intriguing parallels to the sounds of the Black Crowes.

Lyric Themes and Composition

The song “Die for It” features a groovy, expansive feel that leaves listeners wanting more, though it clocks in as a traditional radio-length piece. While some listeners might find this polished approach new territory for the band, there’s an underlying assurance that live performances could easily transform these tracks into extended jams.

Additionally, the album displays a nuanced restraint that enhances the emotional depth of its softer songs. Notably, “I Can Hear Your Love” features Jim James’ vocals reminiscent of Roy Orbison, while “Beginning From the Ending” adopts a more contemplative folk stance with musings on love and existence amidst uncertainty.

Crafting a Unique Sound

One of the most compelling moments on Is is found in “Time Waited.” This track opens with a sampled jazz piano intro from the classic “Blue Jade” by Buddy Emmons, transitioning into a thoughtful mid-tempo exploration of the balance between patience and seizing life’s moments. James articulates this timeless dilemma with an authenticity that reinforces the album’s connection to rock tradition while presenting it through a modern lens.