Jo Harrop Talks New Album, Songwriting And More

Award-winning singer-songwriter Jo Harrop has released her new album ‘The Path Of A Tear’ on Lateralize Records. We sat down with her to learn more about her new record and more:

Your new studio album ‘A Path of A Tear’ is out now. How did you want to approach the making of the album?

When working with Grammy winning producer Larry Klein (best-known for his groundbreaking work with a host of legendary artists including Joni Mitchell, Madeleine Peyroux and Herbie Hancock), the best approach is leave with him. We wanted a combination of original and 2-3 covers.

Where did you record the album and who produced it?

Recorded at The Village Studios in Los Angeles in September 2023 and produced by

Larry Klein.

Who plays on the album with you?

Guitar: Anthony Wilson (Diana Krall, Madeleine Peyroux)

Drums/Percussion: Victor Indrizzo (Willie Nelson, Alanis Morissette)

Piano/Keys/Wurlitzer: Jim Cox (Mark Knopfler, Elton John, Leonard Cohen, B. B. King)

Double Bass: David Piltch (Chet Baker, Art Pepper)

Electric Bass: Larry Klein

One of your tracks is the first single ‘Beautiful Fools’ What was the story/inspiration behind the track?

“Beautiful Fools is not about superficial beauty, but soulful beauty from deep within”. “It is a salute to all the folks who wear their hearts on their sleeves and don’t hold back in love. There are those who have light inside of them, the beautiful souls who keep on giving regardless of what life throws at them. This song is for them.”

Who are some of your musical influences?

Nina Simone, Tom Waits, Aretha Franklin, Leonard Cohen

You are given the opportunity to write the score for a film adaptation of a novel that you enjoy. Which novel is it and why?

Sarah Winman – “Still Life”, because it romantic and gentle, my music suits that movie.

What is your earliest musical memory?

Seeing Tony Bennett as a child at Newcastle City Hall.

Do you have any favoured stage instruments, effects, pedals, microphones etc?

Sennheiser KMS 105 vocal mic

Where is your hometown and could you please describe it in five words?

Chester Le Street – Market Town, with Bitter Sweet Memories

Do you have any interesting, funny or memorable stories from the album recording sessions?

Having just flown in, I walked into the studio and we recorded Whiskey or The Truth within 10 mins, this was the one that made the album…

Do you have any plans for live shows in Europe/UK in 2024?

Following the album launch events in NYC, LA and Ronnie Scott’s on 4th July, we have a 12 city tour planned for Sept-Nov and a festival show in Denmark.

How do you look after your voice?

Warm Up routines, Honey, Throat Coat Tea and Red wine!

Was it a difficult album to write?

The album was a joy to write, but challenging because we were in different countries.

Did you work with anyone on the songwriting?

I collaborate with a number of songwriters, as I don’t play a instrument, notably my MD Paul Edis, producer Hannah V, Ian Barter.

Which of your new album tracks hear you at your a) happiest, b) angriest and c) most reflective?

a) Beautiful Fools

b) Whiskey Or The Truth

c) The Path Of A Tear

What makes Jo Harrop happy and what makes you unhappy?

Happy: People and animals…

Unhappy: Animal cruelty…