The new album by Ojo Taylor signals a bold declaration of individuality countered by an immediate denial of the ego. Entitled BEHOLD (stylized with a self-negating strikethrough), the work is simultaneously relatable and starkly personal. Its textures balance the grounded and otherworldly. The music of BEHOLD defies clear labeling, but will appeal to fans of alternative, gothic, world music, and symphonic sounds.

As the driving force behind groundbreaking alternative rock band Undercover, Taylor created soulful, thoughtful, and symphonic rock music from the ‘80s into the early ‘00s. He nurtured other artists during this period through his record label and management company Brainstorm Artists International alongside partner Gene Eugene of Adam Again. Eventually, Taylor transitioned to the private sector to provide for his growing family. That path led to new opportunities to inspire as a professor of composition, artist management, music business, music law, and more at James Madison University.

Seasons have changed again, and the time has come for Taylor to return to his own music. BEHOLD gathers experiences and perspective to connect with fellow travelers in a different world than the one reflected by Undercover. Emerging from introspection and revealing considerable musical evolution, BEHOLD is Taylor’s first album in more than 20 years and the fullest musical expression of his personality.

This so-called solo project was not made in isolation, however. Taylor invited trusted and talented friends to shape his vision. Key contributors include guitarist Greg Lawless (Adam Again), drummer Aaron Smith (The Temptations, Romeo Void, the 77s), Jeff Schroeder (Smashing Pumpkins, The Lassie Foundation), Eric Campuzano (The Prayer Chain, The Lassie Foundation), mixing engineer Chris Colbert, and art director Darin Beaman.

Taylor’s sonic thumbprint remains, but the musical elements are refined, mature, and even more sophisticated than Taylor’s ambitious earlier work. The aural palette of BEHOLD balances power and sensitivity, contrasting darkness with light. Orchestral passages ring with power and swoon with emotion. Guitars crackle with feral energy. Keyboards whisper quiet truths and speak with authority. – Jeff Elbel