Songs

You would think at my age, 55, I would be like most of my friends and be happy with the music of the 60s and 70s, and I am, for the most part. But I am always looking for something new because I don't believe that good music stopped with my generation. I have a part of me that likes country music because I grew up hearing Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard, Hank, etc but really am not that impressed with today's "new country". I have since discovered Lindi Ortega, Sturgill Simpson and now John Fullbright. All these artists have shown me that the best country is off the beaten path and out of the mainstream. John's lyrics are just fantastic, no stupid songs about his boat, tractor, pick up truck and girls that love them. His songs like Lindi's and Sturgill are about things that most of us can identify with. His voice is incredible and piano arrangements are top notch. Don't take my word for it, listen to some of the mp3 samples on Amazon and see for yourself. It's good to know that there is hope for the future when it comes to country styled music that isn't just cheap pop with a fiddle or slide guitar!!!

I happened to hear John Fullbright on an episode of Prairie Home Companion that featured songwriters. As soon as he started singing, I immediately stopped what I was doing and gave my full attention. And then I waited until he came back on later in the show and sang again. This guy has a "voice", both in his singing and even moreso in his songwriting. I got so excited to hear something that seemed genuinely new and original, though at the same time somewhat familiar. His music is kind of of in a country / folk vein, but it's way deeper than the typical songs you hear on the radio or TV. Some songs sound a bit confessional, but not self-indulgent in the least. There's an honesty and depth to them, with very clever, interesting word choices and rhymes. There is real craft in his songwriting, along with a strong point of view. I hope he keeps on doing it, because I get the strong feeling that he's only going to get better and better. And I'm thrilled to have discovered him at this relatively early point in what I hope will be a long career.

I was under the impression that Mr. Fullbright's music came under the heading of Americana, and that it was primarily guitar music. Songs is really a collection of what I would call ballads, with a great amount of piano music. He sounds a lot like Rufus Wainwright, which is fine. His lyrics sometimes have overly simplistic rhymes, which doesn't help. All in all, he's good, but this music is more middle-of-the-road compared to what I was looking for.

John Fullbright could sing new country (which I hate) and I'd listen to it on repeat. Although he'd never sing new country because he has his own words to present. So much soul in his voice, so much talent in his hands. Buy this cd. If you don't like it, you will know someone who will and they can explain to you it's awesomeness.

Stellar songwriting by one of the brightest stars in the Americana genre. His first studio release was nominated for a Grammy (he lost to Bonnie Raitt). This one didn't get the Grammy nod but it's just as worthy as anything that did. This is an album that deserves repeated listening by those who enjoy the art of a well-crafted, skillfully written song. Those interested in background music or dance songs need not apply.

Great album by a great artist!

John continues to produce solid albums as his songwriting matures. "Write a Song" is an interesting play on words during the song. This album is more low-key with mellow tracks primarily accompanied with piano & acoustic guitar (very little harmonica which I enjoyed on his first album). Highlights thus far are, "Happy", "She Knows", "Write a Song", and "High Road" (my overall favorite). John writes good folk/americana which is very enjoyable and well made. I'd recommend this to anyone who enjoys that type of music. You won't be disappointed.

His music be it on disc or live performance can make the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end. When you see him live you know you are in the presence of greatness, and that feeling transcends into the recorded sound experience. Check him out one way or the other. Or do yourself a favor and do both. You will be left both satisfied and still wanting for more.