Edgar Allen Poets: Dark Matter Is Jessi Robertson’s Album out Now
Jessi Robertson’s Dark Matter is an album that lives up to its title — mysterious, emotional, and full of invisible energy connecting every track.
“Spooky Action at a Distance” opens the album like a cosmic spark. Robertson’s voice enters with depth and nuance, immediately revealing a singer with remarkable emotional range. Her tone carries shades of Kim Carnes, yet her delivery feels entirely her own — smoky, soulful, and charged with quiet intensity. The production supports her vocals beautifully, with synth layers and subtle rhythmic textures that evoke a retro glow filtered through a modern sensibility.
“Shadow War” moves in a more dynamic direction, striking a balance between melody and grit. Its lyrics cut deep, touching on internal battles and quiet resilience. The pads in the background open the sound wide, almost cinematic in their reach, while the rhythm keeps the emotional core steady.
Then comes “The First Law of Thermodynamics,” a standout track that showcases Robertson’s sophisticated approach to songwriting. The chord progressions twist in unexpected yet satisfying ways, recalling the melodic craft of Dave Matthews but filtered through her own introspective lens. It’s intelligent music that still hits you in the gut.
“Persistent Memory” introduces gentle, echoing guitar tones reminiscent of Gustavo Santaolalla. The spacious mix gives the song a sense of open air, yet the vocals bring it close — a haunting contrast that defines much of the record. “Rogue Star” then strips things back into intimate territory, a ballad glowing with psychedelic shimmer. The clean guitar sparkles like sunlight on still water, carrying both fragility and warmth.
“Object of Desire” closes the album with quiet brilliance. Minimalist arrangements allow Robertson’s voice to rise front and center, delivering lines that feel both personal and universal. There’s something cinematic here — like the end credits of a beautiful film.
Dark Matter is a rare kind of album — elegant, emotional, and unpredictable, yet perfectly cohesive. Jessi Robertson proves she’s not just a great vocalist but a true artist of feeling and form.