Music is something JRTA has been involved with his whole life and seems to be his biggest passion and calling. Inspired by the artists he grew up watching on MTV, he started playing bass and singing in a band back in the 1990s in Kansas City, dead set on making it big in rock. While the band never gained any widespread success, it did light a fire for JRTA in his love of music and set him on a path of musical inquiry to this very day!
Born and raised in KC, JRTA had an early affinity for bass playing and found his place in being in a band as part of his formative years. Commercial success never came, but the experience lit a flame that has continued to burn bright. When that group eventually dissolved, JRTA directed his muse toward electronic music production. Through industry jobs and owning a booking agency, he steeped himself in the regional scene. He works tirelessly from his home studio, layering rhythmic textures and melodic motifs into songs at an incredible rate.
JRTA’s latest single “Down Shiftin” gives a good insight into his sonic world. The track ushers the listener into a relaxed atmosphere with a sweeping pad of synthetic tones. A proper beat provides a foundation for the chilled-out vocal melodies floating above. Lush pads and arpeggiated sequences swirl around the rhythm section, painting a dreamy soundscape.
The track builds through elaborate layering rather than dramatic changes. Each new element enhances the vibe in fine ways. The vocal takes center stage, and extra synths are brought in to fill out the mix to add to the lush textures achieved.
JRTA masters the creation of evolutions in electronic production. “Down Shiftin” indicates how refinement can be elaborated upon to create a truly captivating experience without having to lean on fireworks or drops. It will attract a following from those who like genres that pop during the late hours of the night and those searching for a refuge from overstimulation elsewhere.
Considering the big chunk of unreleased music he already has in the chamber, it’s a wonder to think about what other worlds he may unveil in time. Details about his future release are scarce, but one thing is for certain: in every contextual layer, the commitment to creation shines through in the productions of JRTA. I encourage readers to go to their favorite music streaming service and take listen to JRTA’s release entitled “Down Shiftin”.