Telluride Sessions - Strength In Numbers

Advantages: broad and well constructed muscal journey through laid back island life
Disadvantages: The September Session Band is a let down compared to other contributors

...As well as being a notable singer/songwriter with a growing legion of fans behind him, Jack Johnson was primarily a film maker until his recent success. This is how I came accross him; after buying his Thicker Than Water DVD. The September Sessions soundtrack features Johnson as well as a number of his like-minded musician friends. The best laid down tracks here are, however, those by Johnson. His earnest voice and gentle guitar are truly hypnotic, even when covering the superbly memorable Jimmy Buffett's "Pirate Looks at 40." This one was recorded before the release of the film and is taken from Johnson's live session at KFOG studios. It's so under-produced and honest that, if you listen closely, you will notice the studio phone ring in the background. Other songs that stand out include Greyboy's "Grey's Groove," a funky soul... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: best songs they have ever written
Disadvantages: track 4 possibly weaker than others

...as well the debut record despite initial promise of single 'Freedom Fighters'. Addictions to drugs and alcohol influencing depression and splits within the band camp meant a four year hiatus was needed before the release of album number three 'Strength in Numbers'. With the focus back on the music, how does the album fare against the two previous? Here is my track by track guide: - THE ALBUM 'Strength In Numbers' - The band are back with a bang in this lead single opener. A tentative machine sound of 15 seconds precedes the massive guitar riff that acts as the basis for the whole song. The track incorporates everything that made the Music well thought of in the first place, an almost message like song emphasising that they are back and doing what they do best. Robert Harvey is now shaven head meaning business with superb vocals. An early... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average very helpful

Advantages: see text
Disadvantages: see text

...and will be familiar to devotees of Bowie’s very early stuff (of which I am) when he was sometimes known as David Jones. In The Heat of The Morning is a splendid, almost psychedelic little ditty with all that faux significant lyrics that remind very much of Procul Harem or the Lovin’ Spoonful. The most impressive thing about this song is the strength of his Bowie’s voice that has a tremendous motown edge to it. London Bye Ta Ta This is a rather whimsical song in the mould of the Kinks, which a sprinkle of the Faces. Just a pleasing number about Swinging London. Karma Man Making full use of the 14 piece orchestra made available to him, Karma Man is song fully at home in this rather psychedelic selection. In an age of gurus and new spiritualism as extolled by the Beatles in particular this song is almost a parody of that and pokes... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful