Jeremy Zucker’s new single “hometown” sets the tone for his upcoming third album Garden State, out Aug. 22. After several collaborative projects and time spent away from solo releases, “hometown” marks a return to the kind of personal, introspective pop that first put Zucker on the map.
The track adheres closely to Zucker’s signature sound — smooth vocals, clean production and an emotional edge that doesn’t try too hard. But lyrically, “hometown” leans a bit more into nostalgia and self-awareness. “Oh right, bet it feels nice / turning your back on your whole damn life,” he sings in the chorus. It’s catchy, but not without weight. It’s a song about distance: from your past, from the people who knew you then and from the person you used to be.
The music video pairs that sentiment with quiet, familiar scenes — Zucker sitting alone in places like parks and high school bleachers. It’s understated but intentional, and it matches the tone of the song: reflective without being overly sentimental.
While the track doesn’t reinvent Zucker’s sound, it’s grounded in the emotional clarity that has always defined his strongest work. “hometown” shows growth, not through big production shifts, but in perspective. The songwriting is clean, the melodies are accessible, and it leaves space for the listener to connect on their terms.
“hometown” is the first taste of Garden State, a 14-track album written and produced mostly by Zucker himself. He’s also set to kick off the Welcome to the Garden State Tour this fall, with 30 North American dates starting in San Diego on Sept. 16 and wrapping up in Los Angeles on Oct. 25.
If this single is any indication, Garden State is shaping up to be a return to form: honest, low-key and emotionally grounded. Purchase tickets for the Garden State Tour here.
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