Wonderful Johnson - The Authentic Memphis Samich

Year of Release: 2003
Label: Independent
Catalog Number: 1325
Format: CD
Total Time: 31:10:00

I love the name of this band and the title of the album. How could you not be attracted to a band with the name Wonderful Johnson? It sounds so footloose and fancy free. The title The Authentic Memphis Samich is as unusual as it gets dontcha think? Well, for that matter, the music is as refreshing and upbeat as I have heard in sometime.

This is what I call power pop ? the kind that goes from first to fifth gear right from the starting gun. Tim McGeary is the driver with his heartfelt vocals built for this rock 'n' roll machine. They reminded me of the Dave Matthews Band for the fact that they use stringed instruments not commonly used such as the cello and violin. This is great music with a strong melodic sense. With soaring harmonies and jangling guitars reverberating around the singer, it harkens back to another time, like the '60s, except it is made for today. With the warm weather weeks away, I can picture cars cruising around with music like this blasting from their speakers. When I hear music like this, it makes me feel free, just like a long drive with the windows rolled down on hot summer day.

When you hear "She Said," which is the best track on the album, you will understand what I am talking about, but first you have to get his CD. If you have always appreciated good musicianship and top-flight vocals in a rock-pop setting you will love this music, I have no doubt.

I go through a process when I review music, I listen nonchalantly first then I listen once again closely. The second time around it all hits home much stronger because I am paying more attention. The bottom line is, if like it the first time, I will listen a second time. This band passed the music litmus test for this writer. Wonderful Johnson won my heart and my ears by speaking frankly to me; hence, I was ready for another round.

In a world full of have-nots with no hope of getting better there are few five star outfits that will tickle your fancy and make your day as this one will. Check out this band, they are worth a good look.

Tracklisting:
I Want Your Number / She Wants More / Connection / 17 Years Down / Undone / Cry / Rescue Me / Don't Lay Me Down / She Said

Musicians:
Tim McGeary - lead & background vocals, percussion, rhythm guitar
Eric Hallis - lead guitar
Bob Ealdez - bass
Peter Wihoze - drums
Scott Simon - keyboards
Anna Acosia - violin
Richard Thomas - cello

Discography:
The Authentic Memphis Samich (2003)

Genre: Rock

Origin US

Added: April 6th 2003
Reviewer: Keith "Muzikman" Hannaleck
Score:
Artist website: www.wonderfuljohnson.com
Hits: 2257
Language: english