Jared Hart has been a steady presence in the New Jersey alternative and punk world for more than two decades, writing songs that sit at the crossroads of rough-edged heartland rock, punk-rooted storytelling, and stripped-down singer-songwriter grit. Based in Bayonne, Hart is also known for his work with Mercy Union and for running Mt. Crushmore Records.
As a solo artist, Hart leans into the more personal and autobiographical side of his writing. His 2015 full-length Past Lives & Pass Lines helped establish that lane, while 2024’s The Condor EP served as a deeply felt tribute to a late friend. His next solo album, The Midnight Motel, is due August 28 via Mt. Crushmore Records and was produced by Hart and Rob Freeman at Audio Pilot Studios in New Jersey.
The record features contributions from Ben Nichols of Lucero, Mark Masefield of Dave Hause’s band, Matt Olsson, poet Mischa Pearlman, Casey Macalush, Karen Levandoski, and Mercy Union’s Nick Jorgensen. Lead single “Bridges” puts Hart’s weathered vocal and narrative approach up front, fitting neatly for fans of Ben Nichols, Brian Fallon, Chuck Ragan, and Dave Hause.
