Johnny Hawthorn Band's self-titled
2006 release is a lively collection of funky rock tracks that
feature the animated vocals and stylized guitar work of bandleader, Johnny Hawthorn.
Hawthorn's arrangements are constructed applying a persona-emanating
style of straight ahead rock built upon a foundation of electric blues,
funk, and tongue-in-cheek, cool soul with an unmistakeable
Hendrix and SRV influence.
Though the instrumentation is of a polished, industrial weight caliber,
the persona aspect of Hawthorn's music is the key ingredient that
gives the songs their distinctive character, charm, and appeal.
The stylistic aspects are subservient to Hawthorn's projection of persona,
and are more of a natural outgrowth of his character than
something he seems to strive for musically. This aspect of his
music gives it an authenticity that is immediately graspable
by any listener making it suitable and accessible for the general, rock-listening masses.
Though Hawthorn is not venturing into any real new territory
on this album, he clearly demonstrates that he possesses
that certain "je ne sais quoi" that is the basic spark
of passion, confident swagger, or twinkle in an eye that tells the listener
that he is for real. He is invested 100% in his music
with his mind, heart, and soul, and the resulting highly-charged music
radiates his commital.
The musical delivery and execution throughout the album are both spirited
and polished, enhanced by the quality production.
And, though Hawthorn does not really explore new musical territories
on this effort, he draws from quality influences,
integrates them in a unique, palettable manner,
and imparts his own distinctive style,
proving that there is always room for good music
within and applying existing styles of music.
| Players: |
|
|
| Johnny Hawthorn |
|
Electric Guitars &
Vocals |
| Steve Heidtmann |
|
Bass |
| Mike Sauer |
|
Drums & Percussion |
| Arthur Barow |
|
Hammond B3 |
| Albie Dunbar |
|
Cowbell (Track 1) |
|
| Tracks: |
| 1) Walden's Pond
|
| 2) Come On
|
| 3) Sorry (Intro)
|
| 4) Sorry
|
| 5) Mercy
|
| 6) Mercy Jam
|
| 7) Hey Baby
|
| 8) Crossroads |
| 9) Still in Love |
| 10) Shadow Man
|
| 11) Cream
|
|
| ~ Christopher
Ruel ~ www.ChrisRuel.com ~ Chris@ChrisRuel.com ~ March 2007 |
