motel void

In the past few weeks I’ve learned to appreciate the Mood Booster playlist on Spotify, featuring some of my favorite pop artists like Chappell Roan and Sabrina Carpenter. When I heard the first track from Jude Grant’s new album—the single One Night Only—I immediately thought, this is a record that will fit perfectly into such playlist. But how wrong I was. Though not in a bad way…

Grant, who studies linguistics and indigenous language revitalization in Hawaii, has already released two albums—both experimental and sonically intriguing. However, the sound design on his latest record JUDE GRANT WOULD BE ANYTHING FOR LOVE marks a major shift. This time, he’s abandoned field recordings in favor of an entirely different approach—this album is, without a doubt, one of the most genre-diverse I’ve ever heard.

It’s a risky concept that doesn’t always pay off, but I have to say, I often find these kinds of bold experiments more exciting than “monotonous“, cohesive albums. After all, I grew up on Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness by The Smashing Pumpkins—a record that jumps from folk to metal to electronic music without hesitation.

At first glance, Grant’s eclectic tracklist might seem almost ironic, but he approaches each style with genuine care. Right after the opening dance/pop track comes No Strings Attached, which leans into country but with a modern twist. Instrumentally, it reminds me of my beloved film The Straight Story by David Lynch. The next track, Amanecer, shifts into an alternative rock backdrop, the melancholic vocal delivery evokes the quieter moments of Linkin Park. This is also the only song on the album where Grant collaborates with another musician—specifically with the Mexican artist Apolo Morfeo.

With FAGGOD, Grant dives into rap—and I have to say, he truly excels here. While the previous songs showcased his versatility, this track highlights his real potential in hip-hop. His flow is tight, and the production stands out as well—it instantly reminded me of my favorite Chicago rapper, Serengeti, especially the darker tones of Family & Friends.

The second half of the album continues its genre-hopping without losing momentum. We get an ’80s-style ballad, an experimental electronic track reminiscent of hyperpop, and even a touch of bubblegum pop. From this section, When Least Expected resonated with me the most. Grant once again shines in the realm of lo-fi bedroom pop—or at least its “Spotify-friendly” variation, marked by high-quality production and a chilled-out vibe.

The album closes with an EDM track. While I personally have never connected with this genre, I can see how other listeners might consider it a highlight. And then there’s Bender, the epic finale, which feels like a song by The National if they leaned more into pop.

Jude Grant’s latest album is daring and wildly diverse, showcasing both his musical range and his skill as a producer. He shifts between genres effortlessly, making it an album where everyone can find something to love. Personally, I was most drawn to the darker corners of his rap and experimental electronic tracks, but even his forays into indie pop and folk deliver high-quality songs.

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