A.D. Kessler - Cobalt Blue (2024) Hi-Res

The debut album from Chicago-based singer/songwriter A.D. Kessler, Cobalt Blue captivates with a serene jazz-inspired rock sound, set amidst poetic lyrical prowess and laid-back vocal immersion. The release also features Peter Mack on drums and Jake Gordon on upright bass.

“My Rome” opens the album with a lushly contemplative intrigue, combining a jazzy bass crawl with lush guitar pulses amidst Kessler’s understated croon. “I can always find my Rome,” the vocals let out past the two-minute turn, delighting there with a slight melodic shift in the guitar lines. A brisker rhythmic pace takes hold on the subsequent “The Spins,” while “Rise” moves back into lusher entrancement — exuding a sophisti-pop appeal with shades of early-era Prefab Sprout.

“Aquarium” is another success, succeeding with Latin influences and a pleading, quivering vocal captivation. “Forgive my English, protect my image,” the vocals let out, maintaining a ghostly immersion into the “freezing in July,” closing refrain. The album consistently enthralls in its jazzy, atmospheric rock productions and relaxed, stream-of-conscious vocal pace — from the poetic, bluesy rock shades of “Ex Machina” to the relaxing closing title track.