John Henry - They Might Be Giants > Reviews > John Henry another audio triumph for the Johns

Author's product rating:   

Originality	Groundbreaking
Lyrics	Sublime
Quality and consistency of tracks	Flawless
How does it compare to the artist's other releases	Outstanding
Value for Money

Advantages:	A sublime album of high points and even higher points
Disadvantages:	The cassette version needs to be turned over in some players

Recommend to potential buyers:

yes

Full review

John Henry - those two words send a rush of pleasure down my spinal chord (sic) just by existing.

This was their first album with a full band supporting them, hence the name John Henry, its an American fable about a railroad worker that fought to stop machines taking over the man-powered work (they used to use a drum machine, you see?) Aaaaanyway, the album is a delight from end to end (and back again). I bought the album, saw the live tour, got the t-shirt and still I crave more.

To try and catagorise TMBG would be wrong, but this is primarally a rock/folk/indie/ragga/funk/metal/hip-hop/ska/synth album with a few other influences thrown in.

The new bass player is the mighty Tony Menomi (apologies for the spelling Tony) who used to play with Pere Ubu and was very nice to us after the show. His influence also shows, but the John and John wierd lyrics and totally rocking vibe shines through all of this like a beacon of purest joy.

Examples of John Henry stand out (they all do) songs -

"Snailshell" first single from the album and a track that I cannot listen to without freak dancing like a maniac around the room, can be difficult when I play it in the car. The guitar on this speaks directly to my inner soul and does things to my spleen.

"Do not forsake me" - Gregorian chant (honest, it is!) that will transport you to another place and then give you a blindfoild guided tour while slapping your ankles with a bikechain. This is a good thing.

"Extra Savoir-Faire" a bit Noel Coward this one, if you imagine Noel Coward grew up in Brooklyn, had eight heads and a homicidal dislike of steel drums.

"Meet James Ensor" - a rock crazy tribute to Belgiums famous painter that encourages listeners to "dig him up and shake his hand, appreciate the man".

I love this album, it has changed my life for the better, let it into your life , sit back, and take in the audio thrilljoypleasurelove all for yourself. The Brooklyn Ambassadors of Love do it again.