Every Josh Stokes release is an invitation to adventure. The Baltimore performer, percussionist, pop futurist has proven time and time again that the power of imagination and quest for originality and authenticity is one that is both infinite and organic. Indicative on the grandiose genre collapsing quixotic brew Toons, the fusion fantasias of Funktion and so much more; Stokes goes full supernatural in a sound that reaches toward the furthest extents of the holiest of holies with the magnificent God Jewel. Like an aura emanating emerald excavated from the rough earth of Bmore asphalt and boulder stones of styles and genres, Jewel breaks the rocks and sediments with a unified performance that shines like a polychromatic neon rainbow that pours upward from the ground to the heavens and back down again for all to witness.

Josh Stokes knocks down the pomp of the podiums and pulpits with the raging wild statement and credence of self on the fuzzy beat banging opener "I Believe". The title track hits on what could be the epitome of the Stokes sound of synthesis which is something trippier, stranger and more syrupy than arguably anything George Clinton ever envisioned. The new Baltimore funk formation steps forward on the smooth and silky collaboration with fellow local luminary Al Rogers Jr. on the new new lover's rock romantic balladry "It's Your World" that emulates the feeling of being with a special someone as the surrounding world melts away as a sensual new realm of blue manifests itself. That sentimental vibe keeps on keeping on with the big and boisterous controlled cacophony of "Babe (insert heart eyed emoji)", while the "Crown" gets regal with big dramatic synths and a royal percussive momentum. Jewel stands as the artist's most realized and monumental work to date, lifting up the listener with inspirational ballads of brilliance such as the timeless "J3 & Tha A" and "Don't Give Up (Keep Jammin')" that are staggering in their astute execution and craft that rivals and recalls some of Thundercat's greatest works.

Entertaining the twentieth century construct of amped up and electrified deliveries is the dinosaur resurrection of "Old Soldier" that is introduced with the spoken world ode to the anachronistic construct of "RockNRoll", that arrives at the sublime and spirit quenching sound of the aptly titled "Goodness". God Jewel stirs up the vibe of what a celestial sound can be here on planet earth with an abundance of unbound beauty such as the time twisting and spirit beguiling bounty of "Your Love", to conjuring visions of alternate parallel realms of consciousness with the universe breaking beats of "DreamOn" as Josh rounds the album off with an assist from Theljon Allen on the ballroom buster elegance of "I'm 4 U". The genius of Jewel is in its showcasing of Stokes' talent as an artist at the peak of their powers. God Jewel solidifies the might of the Baltimore polymath's vast sweeping talents, worthy of being a household name and a powerhouse too prolific to be ignored by all who have slept on the artist prior, not to mention being a top contender for one of the year's best releases.

Josh Stokes provided some insights on the new album God Jewel:

This multi genre body of work embodies love and revolution to the fullest. Giving anthems of hope, persistence, and heart felt ballads and grooves. The intent behind this album is to remind the listener they're beautiful inside and out, loved and appreciated and have the strength and courage to make it through any worldly hardship. Nothing is easy but you can do it in spite of [all obstacles]!

Josh Stokes’ God Jewel is available now everywhere.