Jordan Pike - Codex

Jordan Pike

Codex
self-released; 2015

4.0 out of 5

By J Simpson

When you think of Southern Indiana and North Carolina, you may think of soft bluegrass music ringing out over rolling hills, or perhaps some John Cougar Mellencamp or Guns n Roses next to a bonfire. Chances are, you're not likely to think of smooth, soulful, funky R&B infused indie pop.

On his debut LP Codex, Jordan Pike turns the topsoil of Indiana stereotypes to reveal a rich musical vein. After all Gary, IN gave us The Jacksons; Sun Ra got his start playing in strip clubs in Calumet City and Bloomington, Indiana is home to Indiana University Bloomington, which has a great music school, as well as boasting a rich and vibrant music scene and culture.

Pike recorded almost every detail of Codex himself in makeshift studios. It sounds remarkably accomplished and cohesive considering. Codex exists as a culmination of Pike's musical efforts over a few years time taking the listener on a journey of hopefulness, loss and self-discovery. The predominant feeling I got from Codex is of someone being away from home for the first time and being thrust into the wide world. Songs like "Not Myself" and "You Fell In Love" feel like being far away from someone you love with the distance deepening.

To be honest, this kind of indie club pop is not usually my thing, so this record was never going to be my favorite. There are many aspects that I enjoy, however. Pike's vocals are clear, clean, pure and right on point, which to these ears is the mark of a true and gifted musician.

The more I listen to Codex, however, the less it seems like some Postal Service knock-off than a throwback to classic Prince or '80s Michael Jackson, full of funky, spiky baselines and Stevie Wonder Superstition keys, like on "Not Myself," all over a bedrock of future beats. R&B has entered the collective bloodstream, yielding interesting growths and outcroppings in unexpected places.

Codex by Jordan Pike is a personal, heartfelt and dedicated piece of musical art - perfect for getting ready for the club, or a long drive afterwards. There are details galore, but more importantly, a golden, beating heart. Long may it reign! 

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