As a minister and folk musician, Reverend Jenkins continues releasing content steeped in American folk tradition as he has shown us on his latest single, "Non-Existing Nights," from his EP, 'Side A.' Based in South Carolina, Reverend Jenkins has added more releases into his music catalog this year, including the exquisite folk album, 'Stranger in this World' the experimental rock fusion EP, 'Red Twilight' and this latest buoyant EP, 'Side A.'
"Non-Existing Nights" opens with vivid, up-tempo instrumentation that gives a unique rhythmic flavor to traditional folk music. We are introduced to clear and present vocals dripping in reverberation from Reverend Jenkins. There is a particular passion emitting from the delivery he provides that has you locked into the words he is expressing in his well-crafted lyrics.
Reverend Jenkins's vocals are relaxing yet powerful as his voice pulls you into what he is honestly saying. The lyrics transport you to a different headspace that unravels in the instrumentation being laid down. From the soulful progression to the crisp chords being strummed on an acoustic guitar, "Non-Existing Nights" creates a mood-inducing understanding of his project, 'Side A.'
Congratulations on the release of “Side A,” and “Non-Existing Nights.” Could you please tell us about what this song means to you and what you want the listeners to take away from it?
I wanted to be honest about the conditions of people in the world today. A large mass of people is essentially invisible. I’m not sure what I would like the listeners to take from it though.
Where did you write the lyrics to “Non-Existing Nights”? What experience shaped this masterpiece?
I wrote it traveling through Georgia. It came from observing people.
What made you decide to put this song as the intro to your EP, “Side A”?
It’s sort of an uptempo number and I like the riff in it. I thought it would be a nice one to start off with.
What inspired the unique flavor that you bring to your traditional folk music creations?
My main influences are folk musicians from the ’30s and ’40s. I prefer to sound as distant as possible.
What has been keeping you inspired in 2020?
Christ is my hope so I’m alright. I’ve got songs and books to keep me going.