I spend so much time searching out the latest and greatest music that it is sometimes such a relief to hear something great that is new, but steeped in the old and familiar.

Such is the music of Jack Jeffery.

Album number two from Mr. Jeffery, ‘The Constant That Remains’, is a fresh blast of new retro.

I love the soft, gentle vocals that draw upon all manner of past rock influences. You clearly hear hints of Pink Floyd and The Beatles.

As I listen, I am also reminded of Brian Eno’s ‘Ambient 1: Music For Airports’.

Well, this is Anti-Airport music. Non-intrusive, pleasant AND you may actually WANT to remove your shoes.

Music to cook by, for sure.

Jack said that a pasta dish would be just fine by him. So here is a totally delicious recipe (that I made up myself!) to go along with the yummy tunes.

Penne With Sausage, Salsa And Cheese

Ingredients:

1 lb penne pasta
2 pounds Italian sausage links (a mix of mild and hot), cut into 1-inch pieces
14 oz can of diced tomatoes
1 cup salsa (I used medium heat)
1/2 tsp oregano
1/2 cup cubed gruyère
1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup shredded mozzarella
Cilantro sprigs, to garnish

Directions:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions.

2. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook the sausage until browned.

3. Add the tomatoes, salsa and oregano; heat through.

4. Drain pasta; toss with tomato mixture and gruyère. Sprinkle with Parmesan and mozzarella.

Serves 6

Jack Jeffery’s songs are not just music to cook by.

When dinner is done, you want to light some candles, kick back on the sofa and make sure the wine is within reach.

Turn up the volume.

Ascendancy is one of my favorite songs on the album. I am all over that driving beat and the slow build up. Electronic heaven.
Jack Jeffery-Ascendancy

Not fair to not let you hear some of the fab vocals from ‘The Constant That Remains’. I like this song a lot, too.

Here’s a track from the first album ‘Passage To Agadir’.

Check out Jack Jeffery on Myspace. You can buy the music here.

Cheers!