Closer to the Surface



Clever Compromise

Error: Could not load player.

Discarded

Error: Could not load player.

Closer to the Surface

Error: Could not load player.

Long Winter

Error: Could not load player.

Prove Me Right

Error: Could not load player.

Bursting Water

Error: Could not load player.

Now Is Then

Error: Could not load player.

Wasn't Her Time

Error: Could not load player.

I Don't Really Know You

Error: Could not load player.

Another Sign of Life

Error: Could not load player.

Christain Church

Error: Could not load player.

My Own Hand

Error: Could not load player.


Jen Porter, born and raised in Chicago, has been playing piano and singing ever since her parents put her in lessons at age five. “Closer to the Surface” was born, and most of the writing devised, based on her personal and musical journey. “I don’t think an artist ever says, ok I’m done. I finally achieved everything,” said Jen. “That being said, I think this album brings me so much closer to where I want to be as a musician. Just as the title says, I’m closer to the surface. This album is a testament to how far I’ve come.”

Directed by Grammy-nominated producer, Chris Steinmetz of Stonecutter Records, Jen says that “Chris brings an edge to my music and vocals that has never been captured before. I FINALLY feel like I’ve found someone who gets me. He was able to provide outstanding direction and strength to my songwriting.”

Over the past 20 years, Steinmetz has worked with various artists such as Kanye West, Ben Harper, Tori Amos, Jay Z, Smashing Pumpkins, Alice in Chains, Mavis Staples, Common, Kiss and Feist, to name a few. “Jen Porter is a powerful performer that can bring down the house with her high energy. She can also move a listener with her emotional and dynamic performances,” said Steinmetz. “Jen’s new CD, Closer to the Surface, sets out to show the diversity in her talents as a singer / songwriter and push the limits of her creativity as an artist. This album gives fans melody, emotion, energy and a sense of common ground.”

What the Critics are Saying


"Jen Porter is up to something bigger. This is real music, wide and deep." (read the full review)

“sultry, gutsy voice...calls to mind the intensity of Fiona Apple combined with the self-sufficient attitude of Alanis Morissette.” -MuzicReviews.com

“Jen has a true Janis Joplin feel to her deep soulful, very rocking voice.” -StarPolish.com

“Porter has the pop sensibilities of Vanessa Carlton, but she’s all grown up.” -ChicagoGigs.com

“This petite, flame-haired performer has a soulfully raucous voice." -HotSpots Chicago