Fresh from performing on stages across Europe, Aotearoa hip-hop royalty JessB has dropped her new album MATTERS OF THE HEART – a powerful 12-track masterclass in artistry and sonic sophistication.
It features new single ‘Can I’, which Jess describes as a “lustful take on a new love interest.”
With the stamina of a professional athlete, the sensitivity of a textbook cancer sign, and the unfettered creativity of an artist who embraces change, MATTERS OF THE HEART is shaped by the complexities of love, loss, growth and human connection. Authentic and real, it not only showcases JessB’s artistic evolution, but also her personal growth.
The album contains the already released songs, ‘Not Today’ and ‘See You There’ as well as the latest single, ‘Can I’; alongside not-yet-heard tracks such as ‘Anxiety’, ‘First Class’ (featuring Paige), and ‘End-iversary’ (featuring Deva Mahal). Please see a track-by-track below, in which Jess breaks down each of the songs for fans.
MATTERS OF THE HEART is a highly anticipated addition to JessB’s already impressive discography, which includes her debut album BLOOM (2018) and the follow-up FEELS LIKE HOME (2024).
JessB – MATTERS OF THE HEART
Album track-by-track:
‘Can I’
Lustful take on a new love interest.
‘Mine’
A question to a new love interest “one night, or a whole life?” This song speaks to this love interest and builds a world imagining what that might look or feel like.
‘Thru2ya’
This song is about trying to get through to a partner. It was written at a time when I was aware of their fears in love, but still very much hopeful about their ability to let their walls down.
‘Anxiety’
This song was written in response to a conversation I had with my best friend. At the time I was extremely anxious post break-up and felt like the tough love coming from her wasn’t what I needed, even though she just wanted better for me.
‘End-iversary’ (featuring Deva Mahal)
At some point in time after a break-up , there is a knowing that sinks in that this is actually the end. “Here’s to the end of you and me”. This is about the acceptance and sadness in realising it.
‘Not Today’
A song written to the feeling of being at rock bottom, acknowledging that you know that you will be okay, but knowing that it isn’t today, or right now.
‘Cream of the Crop’
This song represents the feeling of when sadness turns to anger, and you realise your worth.
‘Like u used 2’
It takes two to tango – this looks at the idea of someone finding it very easy to blame you for the downfalls of a relationship, without being able to take accountability for their own contributions.
‘First Class’ (featuring Paige)
Written about a specific moment/ photo.
A dream-world in which the love you always wanted stays.
‘FUBIMU’
An acronym for “fuck you but I miss you” – the confusing back and forth between knowing you deserve better, but immensely missing the person who hurt you.
‘See You There’
A love letter to a potential future that you hope will happen.
‘Worth It’
When it’s all said and done, there are no regrets. It is a gift to be able to experience feeling so deeply about someone. Everything is growth. I’m walking my way, and you are walking yours – but it was still worth it.
