Review: Glimmer of God by Jean Dawson
“Rock ‘n Roll Tupac / Black Janis Jop / Please stop playing with me”
Jean Dawson’s declaration on Glimmer of God couldn’t feel more apt. This album is a masterclass in unpredictability, a kaleidoscope of sound and emotion that refuses to settle into any one genre or style. It’s original, daring, and effortlessly unique in all the best ways.
With Glimmer of God, Jean Dawson builds on the foundation laid by his previous albums Pixel Bath and CHAOS NOW*, further proving his ability to weave a variety of sounds into something not only cohesive but deeply impressive. This album takes his signature genre-blending to new heights, offering an exhilarating fusion of gorgeous synthpop-inspired production, dynamic progressions, and raw experimentation. It feels less like a departure from his earlier work and more like an evolution, a bold next step in his artistic journey.
The album’s strongest moments come from its ability to surprise at every turn. Tracks like “Black Sugar,” “Play Dead,” and “You’re Bleeding Everywhere” are stunning examples of Dawson’s knack for progression within a song. Each track builds, shifts, and transforms, taking the listener in unexpected directions. Just when you think you’ve pinned down the sound, he flips the script, pulling you deeper into his world. It’s this refusal to be predictable that makes Glimmer of God such an exciting listen.
“Darlin’” opens the album with what might be one of the strongest intros of the year, setting the stage with raw, emotive energy. But the brilliance of Glimmer of God lies in its variety. The album swings between explosive punk, introspective ballads, and moments of dreamlike beauty, blending elements of grunge, hip-hop, and electronic music with ease.
Jean Dawson’s vocals are at their peak here, showcasing a versatility that’s nothing short of stunning. He belts anthemic choruses, whispers tender refrains, and even incorporates Spanish lyrics into the tracklist, weaving his cultural roots into the fabric of the album. It’s not just about the technical range—his delivery brims with emotion, making every note feel intentional and deeply personal.
Lyrically, Dawson explores themes of identity, love, and existential discovery, capturing his inner world with poetic intensity. His words feel like fragments of a larger story, brought to life by the lush production and fearless arrangements.
Glimmer of God is a testament to his vision and ambition, an album that demands attention while keeping you guessing at every turn. Beautifully produced, emotionally charged, and utterly unpredictable, this project cements Dawson’s place as one of the most exciting voices in music today.
