Abstract, Dreamy Indie-Pop

Indie artist Jaco Jaco, also known as Jacob Theriot, returns with his third solo project, On the Levee (2026). Formerly the bassist of indie-pop group Sports, Jaco Jaco draws from his background in electronic rock and psychedelic pop to create a record built around textured instrumentation and abstract lyricism. On the Levee is a contemplative project, filled with dreamy synths and soothing drum patterns that create an immersive atmosphere where listeners can fully absorb Theriot’s reflections.

The album opens with “Charade,” a groovy introduction centered around perseverance and continuing forward through the “charade” of life. Released as the album’s first single, the track immediately establishes the funky, experimental energy that defines much of On the Levee. “Celebrate” follows with bright synths and a steady drum line, creating an upbeat instrumental contrast against darker lyrics, including the repeated phrase, “Celebrate we’re out of time.”

The title track, “Levee,” highlights the record’s indie-pop influences through its breezy yet reflective production. The song explores the feeling of remaining unchanged while the people and world around you continue to evolve. Later, “Wager,” another single released during the album’s rollout, leans further into psychedelic territory. Its lyrics encourage listeners to embrace uncertainty and explore new experiences, while the heavier drums introduced during the bridge provide one of the album’s most dynamic instrumental shifts.

“Rerun” increases the album’s momentum with crisp percussion, melodic guitar lines and the bright keyboard textures that define much of modern indie pop. It transitions smoothly into “Over When It’s Over,” a more atmospheric track that questions uncertainty through the lyric, “What is it like to know the answers?” The song’s introspective writing pairs naturally with its calming production. “Heavy” continues this emotional exploration while introducing a more celestial sound, using layered synths to create a feeling of looking upward and searching for meaning.

The album continues its abstract approach on tracks like “Make Believe” and “Fever/Frolic.” The former combines funky rhythms and shimmering synths, while the latter explores vulnerability through the experience of falling for someone unfamiliar. Both songs reinforce the dreamlike atmosphere that runs throughout the project. Closing track “Thought It Wouldn’t Happen” brings the record to a reflective conclusion, pairing melancholic lyrics with gentle instrumentation that leaves the listener with a sense of calm resolution.

On the Levee showcases the musical growth Jaco Jaco has developed through years of creating music both with Sports and as a solo artist. Rather than relying on traditional songwriting structures, Theriot embraces atmosphere, emotion and experimentation. The result is a thoughtful indie-pop record that captures the uncertainty, reflection and wonder found throughout everyday life. For listeners drawn to dreamy textures and introspective songwriting, On the Levee offers a rewarding and immersive experience.