Jared James Nichols with Cage Willis

With nothing more than a Gibson Les Paul slung over his shoulder, a warm amp turned all the way up, and a hot microphone on and ready, Jared James Nichols churns out the kind of rock that rips, roars, and rolls without filter or apology. The Wisconsin-born and Nashville-based singer, songwriter, and guitarist delivers a one-two punch of gritty vocals straight from the gut and incendiary fret fireworks. After earning widespread acclaim from the likes of American Songwriter, Guitar World, Relix, and more, tallying millions of streams, and packing houses at countless shows, he showcases every side of himself on his 2023 self-titled third full-length offering, Jared James Nichols [Black Hill Records].

From the jump, the record kicks into high gear with the bluesy wallop of “My Delusion.” On “Hallelujah,” a flurry of drums gives way to a thick and heavy battering ram of a blues riff only to crash into a rickety bass line and atomic shredding. The record culminates on the emotionally charged “Out Of Time.” Jared’s Les Paul practically cries out as he says goodbye to his old man with a heartfelt and tearful tribute. By keeping it simple, Jared remains primed to leave his imprint on rock ‘n’ roll forever.