Jake William Capistran, a Portland-based singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, has carved a distinctive niche in the contemporary music landscape with his unique fusion of folk, rock, and soul. His musical journey is a testament to his diverse influences and unwavering commitment to simplicity and authenticity in songwriting. Capistran’s career has been marked by evolution, introspection, and an unyielding pursuit of artistic expression.
Today he releases his new video “Pretty,” as Capistran embarks on a creative journey fueled by eclectic influences and spontaneous inspiration. The song’s genesis stemmed from a syncopated strumming pattern on acoustic guitar, which evolved into a vibrant arrangement enriched with electric guitar riffs and synth embellishments reminiscent of 80s-inspired sounds.
While “Pretty” invites listeners to explore the blurred lines between reality and imagination, Capistran’s musical prowess shines through in his dynamic instrumentation and infectious melodies. With each note, he invites audiences on a whimsical journey guided by the boundless possibilities of his musical imagination.
JWC shares of the song and music video release:
“I write most songs very autobiographically (sometimes too much so) but some of my favorite tunes are ones where I let go of reality just a little bit; starting with a moment from my life, and letting my imagination run.
This song started with the idea and the lyric, followed by the chorus’ syncopated strumming pattern on acoustic guitar. I’d been listening to some 80’s and 80’s-inspired music, so I felt like that syncopated rhythm lent itself to some electric guitar and synth hits, which helped enhance the fun, playful nature of the song. I’m a huge fan of the Dire Straits so I channeled my inner Mark Knopfler for the lead riff, and just followed the fun-compass all the way.
Folks might wonder just how true-to-life the song is, and I think that’s part of the fun ;)”
The music video for “Pretty,” captures the essence of the song’s whimsical and imaginative spirit. Directed by Capistrano, the video takes viewers on a visually stunning journey, blending vibrant aesthetics with surreal elements that complement the song’s playful lyrics and infectious melodies. Starring Andrew Wallner, the captivating and cinematic release will keep you on the edge of your seat with twists and turns like no other.
Fans can now experience “Pretty” in its full audio-visual glory, as the music video is now available for streaming. This release marks an exciting milestone for the artist, as he continues to captivate audiences with his genre-bending sound and thought-provoking storytelling.