Jesse Welles Goes Track by Track Through New Album "Masks Off"

Track by Track is our recurring column that sees artists take readers through each song on their newest release. In this edition, Jesse Welles explores his new album, Masks Off .

Over the last couple years, Ozark, Arkansas-based folk singer Jesse Welles has broken through the public sphere with poignant and raw storytelling that speaks to the collective unrest in society and the political landscape. His form of musical protest is straightforward, and often with a hue of satire. Welles’ ability to authentically tell it how it is through his 21st century lyrics in a genre that has historically been a vessel for truth is exactly what’s resonated so deeply with listeners.

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Despite the growing fame, Welles’ intention with his music hasn’t faltered one bit on his sixth studio album Masks Off . With his trusted producer Eddie Spear, Welles cut the album in three sessions in the midst of touring to create an album that draws from some of the most pressing political and social issues plaguing the country, from ICE to DOGE. Back in May, Welles released the album’s opening title track, which we recently named as one of the Best Songs of 2026 .

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Without attempting to dictate how people think, Masks Off is purely a sincere and introspective reaction to the world around Welles. He suggests that everyone’s intentions are out in the open, and nobody is hiding behind a facade anymore. Hate is not only exposed, it’s encouraged. Welles reckons with this in real time through this album, balancing earnestness with humor, capturing a collective attitude and reaction to the moment we are living through.

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Masks Off is now available to stream below, followed by Welles’ Track by Track breakdown.

Jesse Welles also has a number of tour dates throughout North America from July to October. Grab tickets to see him in concert here .

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_Originally reported by [Consequence](https://consequence.net/2026/06/jesse-welles-track-by-track-interview/)._