Jonsjooel’s EP, Voices of a First Day, takes listeners on a journey into realms where sound becomes a bridge to the natural world. Inspired by Robert Lawlor’s book, Voices of the First Day, which explores Indigenous Australian wisdom, this Berlin-based Finnish artist and composer weaves together folk, jazz, and electronica to create an otherworldly soundscape. The EP’s thematic focus on nature and human connection imbues each track with a raw yet meditative energy, urging listeners to think beyond the physical.
In a conversation about the EP, Jonsjooel noted that the collection began as B-sides to his upcoming album but evolved into something unique, gaining meaning and standing independently. This spontaneous creation process is reflected in the EP’s immersive sound—an unfolding experience that invites you to lose yourself in layers of sound. Each track serves as a chapter in this exploration, with intricate instrumentation and ambient textures that evoke the presence of unseen worlds.
The centerpiece of the EP is “So Many Ways,” a track that encapsulates Jonsjooel’s mission to bring listeners to the edge of emotional and musical boundaries. With delicate, dissonant chords and hauntingly sparse vocals, “So Many Ways” explores themes of consequence and loss. The tension in the song feels almost physical, the music built up layer by layer until it teeters on the brink of collapse. This tension mirrors the complex relationship between humanity and nature—a bond often fraught yet ultimately essential.
Jonsjooel’s own perspective on the track adds depth to the experience. He shares, “I like the idea of playing with the tuning and being on the edge of a total collapse.” His willingness to take risks with tuning and structure gives “So Many Ways” a unique character, one that dares the listener to embrace imperfection and lean into discomfort. It’s a sonic metaphor for life’s unpredictable paths, a reflection on the beauty in vulnerability.
Voices of a First Day, is an ambitious project that feels like a journey to a distant, almost mystical world, reminding us of the timeless wisdom of Indigenous cultures and their understanding of harmony with the earth. This EP is not only a testament to Jonsjooel’s artistry but also a call for us to reconnect with the world around us in a meaningful way.
