By Kevin Malton. Editor
Jared Bond takes us on a career-spanning journey on his latest "Nothing New" EP. This five-track release features songs written while Bond was a touring drummer, gathering dust in his basement (both literally and figuratively) before being refined and presented to the word here in 2026. Recorded at Element Studious in his native Kansas City with producer Joel Nanos, the EP tracks also feature Joseph Peakes on guitar, Caleb Berciiunas on drums and Baird Williams on bass guitar.
Opening with 'Sour Wine', the tone of the whole EP is presented. With honest and emotional lyrics, the mid-tempo structure and beautifully textured guitars aid the listener to focus on the personal and relatable lyrics. The organic sound here leads into the title track, 'Nothing New'. This really is the emotional centre of this collection of songs, with the vocal given room to breathe. Feeling anthemic and intimate, which is a fine balance to master, 'Nothing New' showcases Bond's reflective tone that he has refined across earlier releases.
'All The Same' is memorable for some beautiful early guitar work while 'Conduit' leans into a more off-kilter territory. The EP closes with 'Break The Mold'. This EP closer features Bond's signature warm guitar tone and a confessional vocal melody, rounding off the EP in style.
The 'Nothing New EP' is a true collaborative effort, with the other musicians really delivering on a platform for Jared Bond to showcase his songs in a more developed way, as opposed to his earlier work. These songs are clearly a labour of love and it is fitting that Bond has given them the treatment that they deserve. There are traces of Elliot Smith and Father John Misty in the melancholic feel and wry detachment displayed and Jared Bond clearly chooses to write songs that reach for connection as opposed to for recognition. An example of substance over style.
Overall, 'Nothing New' is Jared Bond settling into his own voice and sound with clear confidence. The EP rewards repeated listens and is a solid release with character, earning it a place within contemporary thoughtful American songwriting.
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