Jesse Correll: Inner Shibori

Struggle and creativity frequently go hand-in-hand, and artists often use their work as a way to make sense of it all. This is certainly true of Jesse Correll, a Nashville-based songwriter, whose album, Inner Shibori, explores this idea by showing how life's difficulties can help to bring about something exceptional in ourselves.

Corell uses shibori, the Japanese art of dyeing fabric, as a metaphor for making sense of uncertainty. The shibori technique involves twisting, binding, and compressing fabric in order to reveal something beautiful. He explains how life often puts us through similar changes, and "what we thought were stains, are intricate patterns; the design of unseen hands."

After graduating from Berklee College of Music, Corell settled in Nashville. Along with performing, he concentrated on songwriting. He also hosted a popular podcast. As with the shibori process, he experienced his share of challenging situations as well. After a hiatus from recording his own material, he reemerged with Held Momentarily (2015).

Inner Shibori contains elements of jazz blended with hints of Americana and rock. The main focus here, however, is on torch songs. Corell wanted to recreate the vibe of Frank Sinatra and Chet Baker recordings here. Many of the songs feature lush arrangements, which aren't derivative of these recordings, but instead capture their essence. The result is a collection of songs that resonate with listeners in a similar way that classic torch songs do.

The album features Correll on vocals and guitar along with Jesse Jamie Dick on drums, Ryan Madora and Aaron Berg on bass, Anne McCue on guitar, and Darius Mines on keyboards. The level of musicianship along with McCue and Correll's production results in a very pleasurable listening experience.

There are definitely some jazz elements present, probably most evident in the song "Worst of Both Worlds." There are, however, other somewhat stronger influences at work. Songs, such as "Go Deeper" and "Begin Again, Again" have a smooth, soulful sound reminiscent of popular songs from the seventies. Others, such as "An Icy Cold" have a definite folk music feel. The variety of styles reflects the diversity of Correll's talent and interests.

Correll describes Inner Shibori as something of a breakup album, but not in the traditional sense. As he describes, it iss like breaking up with yourself in a way, and getting rid of the baggage that many of us hold onto. Ultimately, it "became a turning point of self-reflection, acceptance, and even a love rebirth." As with the shibori technique, something beautiful emerges from life's difficult moments.