Jim James from My Morning Jacket Discusses New Album, Therapy, Trusting the Universe, and Letting Go

My Morning Jacket’s latest album, “is,” released on March 21, embodies a sentiment of acceptance with the phrase, “It is what it is.” The band, after their long journey together, has reached a point of gratitude for their experiences and growth. Lead singer Jim James shared that making this album was an incredibly freeing experience, as they had all embarked on personal journeys of therapy, detaching their self-worth from success. For the first time, they were able to play music solely out of love and trust in the process.

Acknowledging the need to relinquish some control, the band welcomed producer Brendan O’Brien, known for his work with Pearl Jam and Bruce Springsteen, to guide them through the album. James confessed that in the past, he tried to do everything himself, but O’Brien’s involvement allowed each member to focus on making music free from external pressures, ultimately selecting the songs that felt right from a pool of over 100 ideas.

The resulting tracklist showcases the band’s rock ‘n roll spirit, featuring dreamy psychedelia reminiscent of their classic tracks. James reflected on the process of creating the album, recognizing that sometimes the music just naturally shapes itself without the need for forced control. His newfound acceptance of this reality was liberating for him as an artist, leading to a fresh perspective on the creative process.

In a revealing interview, James expressed his gratitude for the inner work he had done to overcome personal struggles with depression and alcoholism, emphasizing the importance of self-love and kindness towards oneself. He shared that his growth allowed him to detach from the roller coaster of his music career’s highs and lows, approaching it with a newfound sense of peace and clarity.

Moreover, working with Brendan O’Brien as a coach-like figure brought a new dynamic to the band’s creative process. O’Brien’s unwavering focus on the music without ego or distractions inspired the band members to play more attentively and collaboratively, relinquishing their previous roles to embrace a shared enthusiasm for their craft.

The band’s camaraderie and mutual support were also highlighted, with each member undergoing their own journeys of healing and growth, bringing a newfound sense of gratitude and clear communication to their dynamic. My Morning Jacket’s evolution as a band reflects a deeper understanding of themselves as individuals and musicians, culminating in an album that captures their collective spirit and newfound approach to creativity.