With a strong focus on mental health and spirituality, and a musical style that isn’t afraid to blur genres, “The Jump,” from Connecticut-based singer-songwriter Mars Hendrik is an electrifying entry into his next era. Recently signed to independent label Black Barrel Records, “The Jump” is the first single from Hendrik’s upcoming second studio album, Karma, which is slated for release this summer.
One thing I’ve really grown to appreciate in 2025 is a long-ass song. Clocking in at 4:39, “The Jump” has plenty of room to play around, and it makes full use of that time to really dig in. The track starts off with a slower, kind of cozy Latin rhythm before jumping into the pre-chorus (justice for the pre-chorus!), and then really hits the gas with the punchy, ska-punk-influenced chorus. I’ve got great news for people who love horns — there are plenty of them here, along with an assortment of other instruments. They seamlessly move from being subtle background accents to the main event during the mid-song horn solo (once again, something you really get to savor with a longer song.)
Hendrik, a motivational speaker and coach when he’s not making music, lets that side of himself spill over into his lyrics. “The Jump” exhibits that emotional openness — it’s bright and optimistic while also being raw and introspective. With this first taste of what’s to come, and with a title as emotionally charged as Karma, I’m sure we’ll see the whole range of emotions explored on this record.
Be sure to stream “The Jump” and follow Mars and Black Barrel Records on socials to stay up to date on the upcoming Karma release.