Zack Joseph Makes a Strong Return with “High”
By Rachel Cholst, Staff Writer
If Queen and James Taylor had a jam session, the result would sound a lot like Zack Joseph’s “High.”
Joseph took a three-year break from music, but he’s returned with a stronger sense of himself, his gender identity, and his sexuality. His forthcoming album, Keeping Me Sane, is a reflection of his journey and path to freedom.
The new single “High,” released yesterday, is about an early stop on that path. What happens when love is too much of a good thing?
“Love can feel like flying, but reliance can lead to losing yourself,” Joseph writes. “It’s something we all struggle with in different ways, but maintaining the levity is an important lesson to learn as we find that balance. For me, this song was a personal reminder that getting lost – even if only to find your way again – is part of the journey, so why not have a little fun while you do it?”
The Nashville-based multi-instrumentalist has a knack for tight pop melodies and vulnerable lyrics. As a session musician, singer, AND cellist, Joseph presumably knows a thing or two about compositions, and on “High” we hear him seamlessly bridge his musical worlds.
“This music is about feeling acceptance, regardless of your walk of life, and knowing that everything will be okay. The process of creating this album was just that for me.”
The result is a collection of songs that embrace every inch of life, and capture Joseph’s realizations along the way. But Keeping Me Sane isn’t intended to be a self-help manual.
“I don’t have it all figured out in any sense,” Joseph writes. “But I’ve stayed true to myself and am ready for what comes next.”
The initial album release plans were dismantled due to COVID-19 but Joseph will return to touring in 2021. For now, he continues to create music while restoring antiques in his Nashville home.
Keeping Me Sane will be out (so to speak) on April 16th. Preorder here.