A heady, captivating mélange of rock ‘n’ roll, blues, roots, Americana and, yes, even a dash of country, Keys to the House showcases an artist with loftier goals, greater self-awareness, expansive visions. There is unmistakable maturity and depth in Joe’s throaty vocals, lyrics and musicianship over his maiden outing, evocative of his studio heroes like The Allman Brothers, The Black Crowes, Ryan Adams and Ray LaMontagne. Even the title song, “Keys to the House,” speaks to a deeper reality than some poor schlub who’s locked out of his home: it’s a metaphor for everyone’s ongoing search to find real meaning in their life.
“I think I know more, realize more of what I want out of life, what I need out of life,” says Joe. “I feel I’ve grown a bit, for sure. I think I understand more and more about what makes a great song. It’s tough, but I think I’m growing in a pretty good direction.
“I’ve learned one thing for sure: nothing makes me feel better than writing a song. Nothing.”
“Jaber’s deep, resonant voice is perfectly married to the hearty old-school country rock he throws down with ease. He is a classic songwriter, and his shows mix deep insights with beer-swigging good times…”
– Metro Times Detroit
“Joe’s music instantly throws me right back to my Downriver Detroit roots. He has a very fresh songwriting style, but you can hear all the great old 70’s Country Rock influences shining right through. This is a record that’ll be boomin’ at a back yard bar-b-que, house party, or blasting from truck speakers. Turn it UP!”
– Ty Stone, National Recording Artist
“Better still is Joe Jaber and The Last Divide’s Both Sides (self-released), a tremendous collection of alt-country tunes. Jaber has pulled in some of Detroit’s like-minded big guns in the shape of Ty Stone and Don Duprie, though his song writing is strong enough to stand proud on its own. “To Die Inside” is just one highlight of a record with many.”
– Brett Callwood, Metro Times Detroit