Los Angeles–based folk-rock songwriter Jake Cassman has just released his first album under his own name. The album titled Idling High, is a project born from his return to California and an unflinching dive into depression, stagnation, and self-esteem, all delivered with his signature mix of honesty and dark humor. Blending country, indie pop, and classic rock influences, Cassman builds a sound that feels both urgent and timeless, recalling Tom Petty, Counting Crows, and Jason Isbell. His path here is just as compelling: he left an Ivy League school to chase music full-time, supporting himself through original songs, dueling piano gigs, and even busking on city streets.
Rock the Pigeon is thrilled to spotlight a few standout tracks from Idling High, a record that threads together multiple genres while showcasing Cassman’s sharp musicianship and emotional depth.
“I Think I’m Happy” highlights Cassman’s lively piano chops. Elton John–esque riffs kick off this fast-paced rock track that celebrates small joys in life. Cassman sings with fire and clarity: “I used to think this planet turned too slowly. Now I’m glad the damn thing still works.” The song radiates gratitude, both in its propulsive energy and its perspective-shifting lyrics.
“Anna, I’m Not Interesting” is a tender folk gem carried by softly picked acoustic guitar and a warm, understated vocal. It’s a love song that feels like a soft blanket, full of vulnerability, as Cassman wonders why someone he loves chooses him when she could have so much more. The catchy, heartfelt chorus pulls listeners deeper into its emotional center.
With “Where Do I Start,” Cassman leans into a power-ballad mode. Distorted electric guitars, a riff-driven bass line, smooth drums, and bright piano accents create a rich, building soundscape. The song tackles the universal fear of aging without “getting anywhere,” and slowly swells into a cathartic climax featuring a soaring guitar solo and heavier drums.
“Can You Be Ok?” arrives like a needed reminder in a time when it feels like the whole country is struggling. It’s a comforting anthem about resilience, about how hard times come and go, and how much stronger we are than we think. Whether you’re hanging by a thread or just need a small boost to get through the day, this track offers exactly that.
And for Angelenos especially, 2025 came with a brutal fire season. “October Burning” captures that experience with acoustic-driven folk-Americana warmth and a hook that lingers: “October is burning, and no one wants to burn alone.” Though rooted in wildfire imagery, the song is just as much about loneliness, connection, and choosing who you want beside you when everything feels like it’s falling apart. Its organic production and vivid songwriting make it one of the album’s most emotionally potent tracks.
Enjoy Idling High by Jake Cassman on Spotify now:
To see Jake Cassman live, please head over to BandsinTown.
Written by Ryan Cassata
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About Rock the Pigeon:
Rock the Pigeon is an independent music and culture blog dedicated to uplifting emerging artists, spotlighting under-represented voices, and sharing fresh sounds across genres. Since 2012, we’ve been celebrating creativity, authenticity, and the stories behind the songs.
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