At 15, he took a life. Three days later, his brother’s life was taken. This moving chronicle of forgiveness, family, and the transformative power of art weaves music and mixed-media storytelling into an innovative documentary visual album. Through clear-eyed narration and lyrical journal entries, incarcerated musician James “JJ’88” Jacobs reveals his innermost struggles as a person who has both committed and experienced violent harm. While serving a double-life prison sentence, he searches for healing and peace as he comes of age in this musical odyssey composed behind bars.

Songs from the Hole is a participant of the 2022 (Egg)celerator Lab and Project: Hatched 2024.