CD of The Week

Just because it’s been six years since the last Jay Som record doesn’t mean Melina Duterte hasn’t been incredibly busy. She’s an in-demand producer, songwriter, and engineer who was a big part of the boygenius album, then hit the road as part of the trio’s backing band during their big 2023. And don’t forget about Bachelor, her collaborative project with El Kempner of Palehound. When the pandemic hit in 2020, she focused her attention on these other endeavors and wasn’t sure if she wanted to return to making her own music as Jay Som, but she’s back now with Belong, a great collection of brand-new songs and sounds.

Duterte worked with a variety of collaborators and producers on Belong, including Philadelphia’s own Kyle Pulley (of Thin Lips and Parts Work). That list also includes bold-name guests like Paramore’s Hayley Williams and Jim Adkins of Jimmy Eat World. The omnipresent Williams appears on the crunchy “Past Lives,” while Adkins is on lead single “Float.” With a mantra of “float, don’t fight,” this ode to the fear of change has the punchy dynamics of Adkins’ band’s best moments. The pulsing opener “Cards on the Table” also features Mini Trees, aka Lexi Vega.

However, Belong is Duterte’s project through and through. The hazy “What You Need,” a meditation on an argument after the fact, is a highlight, along with “Casino Stars.” “Appointments” is a lovely, strummy moment, followed by the sad, pretty “Drop A.” Near the end of Belong, Duterte makes room for some Kid A-style experimentation, showing off her skills she’s acquired in recent years on “Meander-Sprouting Wings” and “A Million Reasons Why.”

Jay Som has expanded her abilities to be a jack-of-all-trades. In fact, she produced the new Hatchie album that’s landing in a few weeks. But it’s great to hear she hasn’t given up on her own art – she belongs in the indie rock world for sure.

Jay Som is back in Philly at The Foundry at the Fillmore on Tuesday, December 9th.