Fatea Magazine Review - Inspirational and highly recommended.

There are so many albums produced these days with throwaway titles, so it is nice to see one come along with a title that really means something. The sentiments in the title of this new album from Liverpudlian John Jenkins, perfectly match the emotions and sentiments of his music. All are similar and feel like being given advice by your best friend. 

Is John's music Folk or Americana? The definition is unimportant. What is obvious here is the passion and feel for life that John has and how he uses his music to express his thoughts and dreams. 

The songs on offer here are delivered like an all over body massage, gently relaxing the senses and taking the listener to another world of imagination and emotion. John never shouts at the listener; he merely invites you to listen to him and his music, all of which is beautifully produced here with some wonderful backing. 

It is claimed that John's influences range from The Beatles to Bruce Springsteen, although I personally feel more of the vibes from early Cat Stevens with his thoughtful storytelling and gentle delivery. 

Having spent many an hour travelling around the country by train, "Strangers On A train" resonates with me and perfectly captures the mind of the traveller. Alison Benson provides sublime vocals in this duet with John. "Cracks" is a story that will rip the heart out of a parent as a child goes astray. Heartrending emotion filled lyrics and coincidentally it also contains the first time that I have ever heard Woolworths mentioned in a song! 

The Nashville Songwriters Association has nominated John as one to watch which says as much about his music as any review is capable of doing. John will be on tour in the UK during August. 

Overall, this is a beautifully constructed and delivered album by a master lyricist with excellent observational skills and the ability to share these observations with the world through his songs. Inspirational and highly recommended. 

Rory M Stanbridge

https://www.fatea-records.co.uk/magazine/reviews/JohnJenkins3/

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