Jonathan Jackson chatted with Digital Journal about his forthcoming EP with his band Enation, as well as his upcoming show at The Theater at Madison Square Garden.
Jackson and his band, Enation, have returned to the studio with Grammy-nominated producer Greg Archilla to record their new EP Blame-shifter, which will be released on May 13, on their own record label, Hilasterion Records, which is distributed through Sony RED. “The song selection was a combination between the conversations that we have within the band, and what kind of a record we want to make next.
We wanted to make something that was pushing a little bit harder into the alternative rock theme,” Jackson said. “We love working with Greg Archilla. He is amazing as a person, producer and engineer. He is so good at what he does. He has such a passion and love for the music.”The new EP features a live version of “Unchained Melody,” which was recorded live at the iconic Grand Ole Opry. “The first time that I performed at the Opry, they had it the Ryman Auditorium, and the first song I sang there was an Elvis gospel song, and I dedicated it to my dad. I grew up listening to a lot of country music and Elvis gospel music, so whatever nerves I had were channeled towards wanting to do something that was honoring to my dad. I actually felt pretty comfortable when I was out there performing on the Opry,” he said.
When asked about his personal favorite songs on the album, Jackson noted that he is drawn to the title track and “Alleluia.”On May 5, Jackson will be performing at the Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York City, along with the cast of Nashville, which will include country singer-songwriter Chris Carmack.
“It has been exciting to go out there and connect with the Nashville fans like this. It is fun and exciting. We have some of the most incredible musicians in the world in the band,” Jackson said.Following Jackson’s solo dates with his hit television show, he will be touring with his band this spring and summer.
On May 15, Enation and Jackson will be playing the Wolf Den at Mohegan Sun in Connecticut. “We are excited about that. We have been talking a lot about what we are going to be doing for our live shows, and bringing the music from the EP out on the road. Every album and every tour, we keep growing and learning.
We love what we do, so we are excited to connect with people,” he elaborated.Jonathan Jackson + Enation is comprised of Jonathan Jackson on lead vocals and guitar, Richard Lee Jackson on drums, and Daniel Sweatt on bass.Aside from his musical endeavors, Jackson is a five-time Emmy-winning actor, who is best known for his Lucky Spencer role in General Hospital. In addition, he has starred in other projects such as Deep End of the Ocean, Tuck Everlasting, and he stars as Avery Barkley in Nashville.To learn more about Jonathan Jackson and Enation and their tour schedule, check out their official homepage.
Attribution: Richard Lee Jackson
