scojo
549 posts
May 14, 2016
9:48 AM
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I'm thrilled about this great review of "Going Somewhere" that just appeared on the U.K. website World of Harmonica, by Shaun Luke... You can "pay as you want" for the album here.
WOH ALBUM REVIEW: SCOTT ALBERT JOHNSON - GOING SOMEWHERE
Firstly, apologises to Scott for lengthy wait, and continued patience. This wonderful album arrived some months back, although album has been played countless times since arrival, sadly never got round to writing review. However, see this as a positive note. For imagine how many songs or albums one has instantly loved, only to get bored of after several listens. Then there is the Ultimate Test of longevity: putting an album back on and hoping it still has the same impact and pleasurable musical stimulation. This album didn't instantly grab me on first hearing. However, after being on constant repeat for a number of weeks whilst decorating, this album not only got better with every listen like a fine mature wine; it has since become a firm favourite.
This is not the usual blues harmonica offering. This is more in the category of pop, soft rock, and even elements of New Wave and indie nostalgia panning back to sounds of the Eighties. There is definitely a strong 80s influence here. The group Genesis comes to mind, and Scott's cover of Peter Gabriel's tune 'I Don't Remember' is Fantastic! mentioned the New Wave/Indie feel; hearing a very 80's style synth keyboard, sounding at times like classic Gary Numan.
Scott really is the Real Deal! He is not only a terrific harmonica player, but also a wonderful singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. Although one can describe his harmonica playing as superb -- at times playing at lightning speed, almost on the tip of John Popper -- this is by no means what I'd call a full-on harmonica album.
It really is an essential ingredient of Scott's overall sound, but this album is a perfect balance of not over-using an instrument, but instead using the harmonica in moderation as and where it needs to be played, without overplaying. Often refer the Harmonica as The Relish, the overall music being the bread, and the filling, with the gentle light dashing of Harmonica Sauce. Scott knows exactly where and where not to play, subscribing to the old theory 'Less Is More' Don't worry, there is plenty of amazing harmonica playing going on. However, there is a lot more besides that. It's a perfect balance of all Instruments, with great songwriting and vocals as well.
This is a real gem of an album. I couldn't possibly put a finger on one favourite track, as every track is highly recommended. It's a feast for anyone's ears.
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