Listen to Ajani Jones Newest EP, ‘Cocoons.’

Across ‘Cocoons,’ Ajani Jones confronts his anxieties and shortcomings, pushing himself to grow into a better man.

Never deny the hotbed of indie talent that is Chicago. The city’s latest rising star, Ajani Jones, has a had a long and winding journey — leaving behind a full-ride scholarship — to releasing his latest EP, Cocoons, and signing with one of the city’s best indie labels, Closed Sessions.

Cocoons is the fruits of Ajani Jones’ labor. The EP is impressively varied for its short run time, and features vocals from Closed Session labelmate, Kweku Collins. Across the EP, Jones confronts his own anxieties and shortcomings, pushing himself to grow into a better man and a better artist. Ending on a hopeful note, the project is a promise extended from Jones to his fans: he will bloom into the artist both he and his city have been waiting for.

If you like what you hear, make sure to check out the Hometown Heros: Chicago playlist on Audiomack.