New Album: John Jenkins releases “Restless Hearts”
“One to watch”
NSAI – Nashville Songwriters Association International
John Jenkins Unveils Album 'Restless Hearts'
Award-winning singer-songwriter John Jenkins returns his album Restless Hearts. Following the widespread critical acclaim of Tuebrook (2023) and the deeply moving six-track EP Weary (2024), Jenkins once again delivers a masterclass in storytelling and musical craftsmanship.
Set for release on all digital platforms on July 4th, 2025. It is an album that promises to be one of Jenkins’s most profound and emotionally stirring works yet.
Featuring 12 original compositions that explore themes of love, loss, faith, and the fleeting nature of time. A carefully curated ensemble of A-list musicians enriches the album’s soundscape, including Mikey Kenney (fiddle), Scott Poley (dobro/pedal steel), Chris Howard (piano), Phil Chisnall (resonator guitar), Pippa Murdie (mandolin, cello, and backing vocals), and Jon Lawton (various guitars and bass).
With poetic lyricism and evocative melodies, Jenkins’s latest work is a delicate yet powerful reflection on the human experience—celebrating the freedom found in connection, community, and the stories that bind us together.
John says:
I began recording this album at Crosstown Studios in September 2024 and completed it in May 2025. The journey has been deeply rewarding but not without its challenges—especially financially. I had high hopes of securing funding from the Arts Council and submitted several applications, coming close but never quite crossing the line. In one instance, I was told that four people were selected, and I was fifth—just shy of the support I needed.
This album is dedicated to those who have believed in me, pre-ordered in advance, and generously helped along the way—whether through special deals, patience with payments, or even moments of financial sacrifice. I won’t mention names, as I wouldn’t want to embarrass anyone, but you know who you are. Please know that your support means the world to me, and I am profoundly grateful.
Songs
My previous album, Tuebrook, was deeply personal, with most tracks drawing inspiration from significant moments in my own life. For this new album, I aimed to return to storytelling, crafting narratives that were less autobiographical yet still rich in character and emotion. Even while consciously creating fictional personas, I found that elements from my own experiences and the lives of those around me naturally wove their way into the fabric of the songs. The result is a blend of truth and fiction, where distinguishing one from the other is often challenging.
I sought to build an imagined world—one that listeners could connect with, populated by characters whose struggles and aspirations resonate universally. The themes revolve around individuals who are restless, searching for something greater, striving for dreams that have been stifled. Interestingly, I was surprised by how frequently references to religion emerged organically within the narratives.
Musically, I drew inspiration from two albums that have long influenced me: Bob Dylan’s John Wesley Harding, with its stripped-down production and lyrical brilliance, and Nanci Griffith’s Last of the True Believers, which masterfully balances intricate instrumental arrangements without overwhelming the composition. For this project, I intentionally leaned towards a roots-oriented sound—favouring acoustic instrumentation over electric guitars—to create a warm and organic feel.
I hope you enjoy the journey these songs take you on.
High Praise for John Jenkins: A Songwriter of Remarkable Depth
John Jenkins continues to earn widespread acclaim for his deeply personal and evocative songwriting. His latest releases, Weary and Tuebrook, have resonated powerfully with critics and listeners alike, cementing his reputation as one of the UK’s most compelling singer-songwriters.
Weary EP – A Must-Have Collection
Americana UK calls it “absolutely breathtaking… a must-have EP.”
Buzz Slayers praises its great musicianship and profound character, likening Jenkins to Neil Young.
Rocking Magpie declares, “Raw, honest, and deeply personal… songs that squeeze your heartstrings until you have to press repeat.”
Spill Magazine describes Jenkins as a talented artist carving out his musical niche, awarding Weary four stars.
Louder Than War hails it as “yet another outstanding addition to Jenkins’ impressive songbook.”
Tuebrook Album – A Stunning Masterpiece
Maximum Volume praises Jenkins as “one of the UK’s best and most original songwriters.”
Americana UK highlights “a masterful collection proving why Jenkins is becoming one of Liverpool’s most respected artists.”
Spill Magazine likens Tuebrook to Springsteen’s Nebraska—an incredible album that stands out.
Liverpool Sound and Vision awards five stars, calling it “a piece of art that moves and lifts with hope—an album for the ages.”
Louder Than War affirms, “Tuebrook will stand the test of time and may well be a defining moment in Jenkins’ career.”
With comparisons to legends like Simon & Garfunkel, Ralph McTell, and Suzanne Vega, Jenkins’s ability to craft heartfelt, intimate songs continues to captivate audiences. As critics agree, his music is timeless, evocative, and unforgettably genuine.
John Jenkins Announces Intimate 12-Date UK Tour in Support of Restless Hearts
John Jenkins will embark on a special 12-date UK tour in July 2025 to celebrate the release of his highly anticipated new album, Restless Hearts. Joining him on stage will be the talented Pippa Murdie (mandolin, guitar, vocals), adding depth and warmth to each performance.
Each show promises an intimate atmosphere, featuring support from handpicked local singer-songwriters in every city. Tickets are now on sale—don’t miss the chance to experience these unforgettable performances live.
More on John Jenkins
John Jenkins, a veteran of John Peel sessions and ’80s post-punk with The Persuaders and Come in Tokio, has carved a path as a leading singer-songwriter in the UK folk, country, and Americana scene. A master of melody and understated lyricism, his critically acclaimed albums showcase evocative storytelling and deft musicianship, earning him widespread praise from the music press.
Website: www.johnjenkinsmusic.com
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