J. Killen lets life’s hard lessons breathe on latest release “Cold Winds”

J. Killen returns with new single, “Cold Winds,” a grounded song that carries the warmth of a story told from an old porch. The mid tempo, laid back feel of the song allows every detail to breathe, while acoustic guitars, distant prairie banjo, pedal steel, bass, and drums come together in an earthy, finely balanced arrangement. J. Killen’s lyrics here have a burnished wisdom, a reflection on life with a perspective that feels earned  than performed. Nothing is decorative, every instrument is working the mood. “Cold Winds” is stylish, easy listening, full of rural character, emotional maturity, and warmth, quietly sure of itself in its simplicity.