Maryland artist Jamal J. returns with My Armada & the Bitter Waters of Marah. Following earlier releases this year, the project continues to present his strengths as a writer and curator of atmosphere, pairing image-driven lyricism with production that moves deliberately and with intent. Nothing here feels rushed or incidental- each track is given room to develop, inviting the listener to sit with the music rather than skim its surface.
Jamal J.’s writing remains the anchor. His verses are dense with symbolism, reflection, and finely drawn detail, delivered with a steady confidence that never slips into excess. The production mirrors that restraint while still feeling expansive: ethereal samples, organic percussion, warm horns, and swelling melodies create a cinematic backdrop that feels both immersive and tactile. The result is a balance of grit and elegance- polished without losing texture, introspective without becoming insular.
Several tracks stand out for how seamlessly they fit into the album’s larger arc. “Dichotomy,” produced by Reallyhiiim, finds Jamal J. and ANKHLEJOHN trading poised, tightly structured verses over a sleek foundation. Elsewhere, “Onomatopoeia” pairs shimmering strings with a driving bassline, while “Pig Latin” layers flickering guitars and warm horns beneath smooth exchanges between Jamal J. and Raheim Supreme. “Weigh Me Down,” featuring Sol Chyld, lands with quiet force- expansive, reflective, and grounded in a sense of emotional gravity.
Taken as a whole, My Armada & the Bitter Waters of Marah is focused, immersive, and deeply personal. It rewards close listening, revealing new details over time rather than spelling everything out at once. Jamal J. demonstrates sharp skills in crafting mood, texture, and language, reinforcing his identity as an artist guided by vision rather than trend. With My Armada & the Bitter Waters of Marah, he delivers a body of work that feels lasting- one that trusts its audience and lingers long after the final track fades.
Listen on all platforms here: https://linktr.ee/jamalj
Photo credit: @themikah
