Derek Jordan

Musical expression can be used for multiple purposes, whether it be entertainment, attention, money, or simply as a medium to communicate mental and emotional turmoil. For Derek Jordan, it just so happens to be the latter.

Jordan, a singing, song-writing guitarist from Pittsburgh, pours his thoughts, observations and theories into a compilation entitled Identity (fitting, considering the subject matter). The Pennsylvania native plays a variety of alternative and indie rock, heavily influenced by classic rock greats such as Eric Clapton and Led Zeppelin. The nature of his vocals can be easily paralleled to Chris Cornell (Who happens to be Jordan’s favorite vocalist–how pleasantly ironic?) and at times, if his voice is high enough, you hear a bit of Ozzy thrown in.

The lyrics for each song are comprised of poetic, one-liners and are quite deep in a psychological and physiological sense. It’s very difficult to determine during the first listen what the underlying meaning is in each track (as with most unique pieces of music), but give it another listen and be patient. It all makes sense in the end. For example, “Good Bye Jupiter”, describes the freedom of letting go of a love that wasn’t meant to be and “Vaccine” is an ode to finding yourself naturally, rather than through drugs or other self-destructive behavior (everyone’s got an opinion I suppose).

His classic rock rifts and engaging guitar solos provide a casual atmosphere, almost as if you are watching him jam while he has discussions with you about how he views the world and himself, in a melodic nature of course. Jordan will be having a release party for his album at the King King in Los Angeles on April 2nd, so if you happen to dig his album, pencil it in.

http://popwreckoning.com/2009/03/26/derek-jordan-identity/ - Tatum Hengal, popwreckoning

Derek Jordan’s self financed release Identity reaches back to the basics in a traditional classic rock sort of way. Everything I’ve ever said about rock needing to evolve can be thrown out the window. It’s nice to hear artists that want to make music and not just make records and live the life of a rock star. Derek calls his style Psych Alternative Rock and I think he pins it down with that one. The inspiring lyrics mixed with some swaggering rock riffs and Derek’s deep, powerful and warm voice make every bit of his album very comforting on the ears. Is this rock music that you’ll listen to while throwing a kegger in your frat house? No. Is it music you will enjoy listening to while driving, working, reading a book etc.? Yes. Don’t get me wrong, it’s fun but it’s just not “party” music. It’s much more than that. Identity is a journey through a mind of intelligence and honesty. - Scott Wharton, The Rock Dose

"With a commanding voice, Derek is simply one of the best in Indie music that is currently out."
- Isaac Davis Jr., MBA, Juniors Cave Online Magazine
Full interview: http://www.juniorscave.com/DerekJordan.html
- Isaac Davis Jr., MBA, Juniors Cave Online Magazine

"The very talented singer/songwriter is a true symbol of independence, not only in music, but in life."
- Mike Wilson, Indie Music Universe: Artist of the Week, 4/13/09
Full feature: http://indiemusicuniverse.com/artisthighlight/derek-jordan-artist-week-41309/
- Mike Wilson, Indie Music Universe: Artist of the Week, 4/13/09

"There is absolutely nothing that can stop Derek from pursuing his dreams. Embracing individuality is a theme that he proudly promotes and he hopes that he inspires people to partake in this experience.?
- Katz Bryan, Associated Content
Full interview: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1682313/an_interview_with_derek_jordan.html?singlepage=true&cat=33
- Katz Bryan, Associated Content

"With his red handprint emblazoned in paint upon his chest, Derek Jordan seeks to become his own man in a world that is crowded with copycats."
- Joseph Bridges, Real Sound Theory
Full review: http://www.realsoundtheory.com/music/derek-jordan-identity - Joseph Bridges, Real Sound Theory