Jess Martin

Artist / Creative (Individual)

Jess Martin's gothic folk and modern rock conjures spectral storytelling reminiscent of Nick Cave or PJ Harvey. Their songs resonate like ghost stories sung beneath moonlit pines—haunting, percussive, and steeped in shadowed melodies. A theater of sound where folklore and modern anxieties converge into raw, compelling narratives.

More information on their website, and music can be experienced via many streaming outlets, Spotify link here.

"Jess Martin’s songs pull you in as their secrets and stories unfold. Whether sharing tales of unrequited love or breathing life into an iconic figure like Amelia Earhart, the listener is treated to catchy driving music that leans on a smidgeon of atonality to make it feel new while also harkening 80s indie artists such as PJ Harvey. I’m a fan!" - Ruth Critcher, The Secret Chord / The Velvet Bouquet

Jess is gaining momentum with Shadow, Sound, Spectacle, an innovative puppetry collaboration that merges music with visual storytelling. This groundbreaking project brings Jess’s narratives to life through intricate puppetry, creating immersive performances that captivate audiences and push the boundaries of traditional live shows.

“Jess has a special knack for community engagement like I’ve never known. Her/their openness in collaboration is among the ways she/they demonstrates her/their personal commitment to advancing her/their music.” - Anders Griffen, Musicevolution

Echoes of Nature: Hampshire County is a collaborative project by Jess Martin & Kim Hoff that explores the landscapes of Hampshire County through poetry and music. This project focuses on six distinct natural locations across six towns, with the goal of creating a series of performances that inspire environmental stewardship & foster inclusive, welcoming spaces. 

This Fall, Jess released three captivating singles:

  • "Nevermore" – A dark, introspective track inspired by Edgar Allan Poe’s timeless tales.
  • "Every Quiet Night" – A soulful exploration of solitude and self-discovery.
  • "Headless" – An edgy, rebellious anthem that challenges conventional narratives.

Each single intertwines Jess’s distinct voice with seering vibes, offering listeners a unique auditory journey through classic literary landscapes.

Whether releasing new music or embarking on theatrical collaborations, Jess Martin continues to redefine the indie music scene, inviting misfits, dreamers, and outsiders to join in the journey.

Videos:

Primary Discipline

Music - Pop / Rock

Additional Disciplines

Music - General
Music - Band
Music - New

Activities

Performance / Concert / Reading
Virtual Events
Arts for Social Change / Creative Activism
Public Art Projects (In Free, Public Spaces)
Community Arts
Professional Network Gatherings / Events
Workshops / Demonstrations / Master Class

Awards

  • 2005 Massachusetts Cultural Council Artist Grant for Playwriting
  • Nominated for Best New Play 2006 for Home by the Independent Reviewers of New England (IRNE)

Education

  • Masters in Playwriting, Boston University

Additional Information

  • Year founded: 2019
  • Is a Touring Artist
  • Approx. 20 events per year
  • Geographic Reach: City/Town-wide, County-wide, Surrounding Counties/Region, State-wide, Surrounding States/Region, Nationally, Internationally
  • Seasons active: Year round