PRESS-

“A poised crooner, Aranda combines the yearning spirit of Roy Orbison and the cosmic grace of Gram Parsons, calmly bearing witness however painful the subject matter.”- No Depression review here

“He has this mournful, whiskey-soaked baritone that coats your ears like the sweetest honey. It’s then paired with warbling steel guitar, warm organ swells, and sumptuous background vocals. Standouts like the title track, “Dream of Mexico,” and “Strangers in a Field” provide delicious psychedelic American vibes in the vein of Tom Waits, Gram Parsons, and Gary Murray. All told, Aranda has created the perfect atmosphere for a quiet night sitting on a back porch swing watching the sun dip below the horizon.”- Bearded Gentlemen review here

“Aranda’s low, sonorous voice, lifted by haunting backing vocals, is really engaging, drifting over gorgeously-textured musical layers.”- AmericanaUK- review here

"Great Highway is charming, warm and melancholic, with elements and influences that range from classic country to Southwestern-influenced folk. Jacob's commanding vocal delivery is a perfect match to the music - a solid vocal presence that accentuates and nicely complements the aural atmosphere."-Sound Thread Music Blog-Read full review here.

"The end result is full of beautiful, mellow country soundscapes, with Aranda consistently sounding like a guy who is, quite frankly, going through some shit. And even if he isn't going to find pure redemption, he's going to learn from the pain and come out a little stronger and wiser on the other end."-The Bay Bridged-Read full review here.

"Beautiful music, a very timeless quality to it."-KWMR Rock of Ages, excerpt here.

"Jacob Aranda is a Bay Area musician so accomplished that it’s hard to believe his 2018 album Great Highway is also his debut."-The Z Review full review

“In Aranda, Northern California has its own contemporary master of country song form, and “Half Life” offers reflective candor behind the strong, wry exterior.”- I Luv Mondays BFF.fm here

“Dream of Mexico” was inspired by a desire to connect, understand and find some healing around his relationship with his father, who passed away suddenly at the height of the pandemic.”- KQED interview here

With tracks like “Joshua” and “My Lovely Friend”, War Planes is a must-listen. - WMEB review here