Fans of the ‘90s alt-rock scene were thrilled when Superdrag reunited in the fall of 2022 at Knoxville’s Second Bell festival. This marked the band’s first live performance in a dozen years, igniting hopes of new music from the beloved group.
Though the prospect of a new Superdrag album was on the horizon, those plans eventually took a different direction. Instead of a new album from the band, the creative energy from these sessions has culminated in a solo project by frontman John Davis, titled JINX, which is set to be released in September.
JINX represents a fresh chapter in Davis’s storied career, blending the raw energy and introspective lyricism that have long been hallmarks of his music. Initially intended to be a follow-up to Superdrag’s 2015 album Industry Giants, the project evolved into a deeply personal solo endeavor. Despite the shift, fans of Superdrag’s signature sound will still find much to love in JINX, as Davis’s songwriting remains as heartfelt and potent as ever.
Produced by Stewart Pack, a longtime friend and musical influence on Davis, JINX carries a special significance. Pack’s involvement goes beyond the producer’s chair; his son, Henry Pack, joined in as the album’s engineer, adding a familial touch to the production process. Both Stewarts and Henrys are featured as drummers on the album, creating a collaborative atmosphere that Davis holds dear. “Stewart Pack has been a hero of mine for about 30 years,” Davis shared. “He was the guitarist and the singer in my favorite Knoxville band ever, Pegclimber.”
Davis’s approach to JINX is rooted in authenticity and emotional honesty. “I’ve been writing songs for a long time, and my process has never really changed. I just try to open my heart up, and whatever’s in there, that’s what you get,” Davis explained. This openness is sure to resonate with listeners who have followed Davis’s career from his Superdrag days to his solo ventures.
As anticipation builds for the September release of JINX, it’s clear that the project is more than just a side note to Superdrag’s legacy. Instead, it stands as a testament to John Davis’s enduring creativity and his ability to transform life’s twists and turns into compelling music. For fans old and new, JINX promises to deliver the same heartfelt, introspective rock that has made Davis a staple in the alt-rock world for decades.
Though Superdrag’s reunion didn’t yield the new album some might have hoped for, JINX offers a new opportunity to dive into the mind and heart of one of the ‘90s alt-rock scene’s most distinctive voices. September can’t come soon enough.