“A must-see live performer.”
Maurice Starr
In the mid-90s, when alternative rock was colliding with industrial grit, independent artist Jody Whitesides carved out a track that still feels disturbingly relevant today. “Spiral Event,” first released on his 1997 album Delicate Stretch of the Seems, is a dark, guitar-driven meditation on truth, lies, and the fragile thread holding society together. With a sonic palette inspired by Nine Inch Nails and a sample-heavy drum foundation built from Harley Davidson kick-starts, slamming doors, and clinking chains, Jody pushed creativity into raw, experimental territory.
The lyrics strike with urgency: lies overshadow truth, doubt leads to regret, and humanity risks spiraling downward into meaninglessness. It’s both a warning and a lament — a stark reminder that complacency is dangerous, and distortion of memory can dismantle the very fabric of civilization. What makes “Spiral Event” timeless is its uncanny ability to mirror today’s cultural unease, where disinformation spreads faster than truth.
Beyond its themes, the track holds personal history. Jody, who had never owned a TV, became fascinated with The X-Files while living with vocalist Jeff Scott Soto. A line about stories only surviving when passed between generations sparked the song’s opening verse. Accidents in the studio — like leaving vocals soloed over silence — became defining moments in the mix.
“[Jody’s] performances and material show lots of skill and craft without sacrificing heart or conviction.”
Music Connection Magazine
After initial studies at Berklee in Boston, Jody flew west to achieve his ambitions, studying at the Musician’s Institute in Hollywood. An LA showcase performance caught the ear of a talent scout, and soon thereafter, entertainment impresario Maurice Starr became interested as a consultant. Given Starr’s track record, his desire to work with Jody is not one to be taken lightly.
Central to Jody’s potential is his tireless work ethic and fighter’s heart. As a former competitive athlete — in freestyle skiing, he was ranked among the top 20 in the US. Now on he’s on the verge of turning pro in the sport of pickleball. He’s learned the tenacity and effort required to achieve his ambitions. He brings that fiery drive from the slopes and the courts to the studio and the stage.
Much like Jody and his towering, 6’4” frame, “Spiral Event” now reaffirms Jody’s role as an uncompromising independent artist: fearless, inventive, and unafraid to confront uncomfortable truths. This re-release invites new ears to hear its urgency — and challenges listeners to reflect on the spiral we might be caught in today.
“I love that song [of Jody’s]. That’s commercial. That’s a hit.”
Frosty, Heidi & Frank (97.1 KLSX FM, Los Angeles)
Next week brings a different side of Jody’s artistry. Until then, dive into “Spiral Event” and confront its unsettling brilliance.
Jody is endorsed by Taylor Guitars, Sennheiser, G7th, Seymour Duncan Pickups, Joe’s Guitars, Cleartone Strings, Studio Devil, Red Wirez, iZotope, Native Instruments, Plugin Alliance, Grosh Guitars, Telefunken, and Line 6.