by Eric Harabadian, Contributing Blogger

Single Review of Jen Kearney: “Long Division”

Jen Kearney is a singer-songwriter from Boston, Massachusetts that represents the very best of what that job description signifies. She’s got a vocal style that’s full-bodied and steeped in character. And her storytelling chops and facile lyrics are off the charts.

The jazzy, soul-influenced chanteuse has a series of independent releases under her belt. She has also opened for some of the biggest names in rock, pop, blues and R&B, including Daryl Hall, Maceo Parker, Los Lobos, John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers, and The Derek Trucks Band.

Her latest single is a sly and perceptive treatise on the state of our country and its place in the world. “Long Division” hits you immediately with questions about the have and have-nots, with: “Who gets the water, who gets the sky? I see you calculating, tapping into everyone’s well until they’re all dry.” With each verse, the stakes rise higher as she delves into areas of left and right wing views, Middle East conflicts, and even a jab at the current pseudo American president Elon Musk. But, amid all the past and present social chaos Kearney so aptly describes, there is power in her resolute phrase: “Maybe we’re on to you!”

The song’s strong socio-political stance is wrapped nicely in a blanket of funky conga-fueled rhythms, horns and ambient guitar. Kearney delivers her cogent and essential message, with all the gravitas and style of a Nina Simone, Diana Krall, or Amy Winehouse.

Keep Jen Kearney on your radar, as she is a sparkly jewel and a musical north star.