Singles Spotlight:
The Jayhawks –
“Keeping Our Heads Above Water”

Hello reader,

How are you today?

Another day, another fantastic group that is overdue for a Singles Spotlight, in my opinion. The Jayhawks have been in existence for just over forty years, formed in the mid-80’s in the Twin Cities, and over the decades have experienced a few lineup changes and hiatuses as members pursued solo projects. The current lineup features original band members, Gary Louris (guitar, lead vocals, backing vocals), Marc Perlman (bass, backing vocals, lead vocals), and long-time members Tim O’Reagan (drums, backing vocals, lead vocals) and Karen Grotberg (keyboards, backing vocals). The band has been categorized into more than a few subgenres over the years as its sound has evolved; alternative country, country rock, Americana, alternative rock, folk, and roots rock being the most often used. They’ve been known for their gorgeous, often three-part harmonies and songwriting. Josh and I are fortunate to have seen the band live once more than a decade ago, and they were great. Former member Mark Olson (guitarist/songwriter/vocalist) definitely contributed to the band’s sound early on, but we’re mainly focused on the present-day lineup today.

When one thinks about the best Minnesota-based bands/artists, names such as Prince, The Replacements, and Hüsker Dü should immediately come to mind. And Soul Asylum may also come to mind. But one that is often forgotten that shouldn’t be is the Jayhawks. I’ve gone back and forth over the years, but I my two favorite albums of theirs would also be the ones most fans and critics like: 1992’s Hollywood Town Hall and 1995’s Tomorrow the Green Grass. Arguably, I think both see the band at its best. That’s for you to decide on your own, though. I think both are excellent starting points for someone delving into the band after they finish reading today’s Spotlight.

Looking at the Jayhawks’ complete discography and we see that it includes the following 11 studio albums: The Jayhawks (1986), Blue Earth (1989), Hollywood Town Hall (1992), Tomorrow the Green Grass (1995), Sound of Lies (1997), Smile (2000), Rainy Day Music (2003), Mockingbird Time (2011), Paging Mr. Proust (2016), Back Roads and Abandoned Motels (2018), XOXO (2020) and the digital only live album Live at the Belly Up (2015).

Their newest studio album comes out on Friday, August 28th, on the lovely Thirty Tigers label. Pre-order it here. According to the album’s press release, “For Sanctuary Park, The Jayhawks reunited with the legendary Bob Ezrin (Pink Floyd, Peter Gabriel, Alice Cooper, Lou Reed), who produced their 2000 album Smile, a ‘classic,’ according to The New York Times. When he heard Louris was seeking a producer, Ezrin immediately signed on and invited the band to his hometown of Toronto to record. ‘I love their music,’ says Ezrin. ‘There is gentleness and a sweetness to their sound, and I found myself craving a little bit more of that.'”

Bassist Marc Perlman had the following to say in the album’s press release, that he was, “exceptionally proud that The Jayhawks never settled, musically. We never shortchanged the songs. We didn’t put out music that didn’t live up to certain standards,” he says. Also key to the band’s longevity, adds Perlman, are the diverse musical strains – country, soul, electronic, folk, power-pop, and more – that have run through The Jayhawks’ music over many years. “I always felt we were a musician’s band.” I think dozens and dozens and dozens of inspired musicians and fans would agree with you, Marc.

Let’s look into one of the best songs on Sanctuary Park, “Keeping Our Heads Above Water.” It begins with harmonized vocals accompanied by a warm melody that prances about the keys and other instrumentation wonderfully. It is a well-crafted song that perfectly balances melody, instrumentation, and multiple vocalists. Listen once, and I think you’ll agree with me. This song combines the best parts of the musicians involved, compiling their strengths for a beautiful result. As a long-time fan of the band, I would expect nothing less. Earned high expectations, I think. Listening reminds me of Jayhawks songs from the past, whether I close my eyes and get transported further back or stay in the band’s more recent eras. All that being said, this song is a damn good example of the band and a fitting introduction for newcomers. I’m happy to be able to share this song with you as part of SWT’s Singles Spotlight series. Take a listen for yourself and see how you feel about the song and listening experience.

The video showcases the album cover artwork. The song, “Keeping Our Heads Above Water” from The Jayhawks’ YouTube channel:

(All credits and rights to The Jayhawks)

Take a look at the cover art for Sanctuary Park:

The track list for Sanctuary Park:

1. Keeping Our Heads Above Water
2. Kingston Girl
3. Mr. Lincoln
4. Hands Upon The Wheel
5. Leap Of Faith
6. American Midnight
7. Always And A Day
8. Sanctuary Park
9. Familiar Strangers
10. It’ll Be All Right Tonight
11. Rowing The Boat

Alex M Theel

Co-Founder, Reviewer, Content Creator, Business side, Editor at Scummy Water Tower Productions | Web

Scummy Water Tower Productions co-founder, reviewer, business manager, and editor. Thank you for visiting this site, scummywatertower.com, and YouTube for Water Tower Sessions and SWT Interviews. And all of our socials.
Questions, feedback, or more? Contact me: alex@scummywatertower.com