https://www.fatea-records.co.uk/magazine/reviews/JohnJenkins6/
Artist: John Jenkins
Album: Weary
Label: Self Released
Liverpool has produced many fine musicians over the years and John Jenkins can rightly claim his place amongst those. A talented singer songwriter who delivers music which is a fusion of americana and folk, his latest album will undoubtedly enhance his burgeoning reputation.
This latest EP containing six songs, will perfectly demonstrate John's versatility as both a songwriter and a performer. All but one of the songs on this were written at the same time as his previous album "Tuebrook" but were not felt to be in keeping with the music and theme on it. The result therefore is a new recording.
John has increased both the number of supporting musicians and backing singers on this latest album and strays into gently differing genres, thereby producing a very rounded demonstration of his songs.
The title track and opening number is "Weary" which John has been messing around with, his words not mine, for the last two years. It is a very laid back and beautifully arranged track with some wonderful piano backing and an incredible bit of gospel vocals from Helen Shanley, this being totally unexpected on first listen. "Do You Ever Think About me" is a song about relationships and is a gentle piece that John had written to be sung by others. He however decided to record it himself and the theme suits his voice perfectly.
"Bury Myself In The Sand" has an intricate trumpet backing and an almost Bossa Nova rhythm to it. Most unexpected and clever at the same time. "The Reason" is a song about motherly love towards her son. It has perfectly balanced harmonies with a wonderful guitar solo in the middle and is a song that will take the listener on a thought-provoking journey.
"I Don't Want To Be That Guy Anymore" is a piece of music that developed out of some soul searching by John and an analysis of his own warts and all life. A superb arrangement, primarily on guitar, it is one of the songs that will induce a bit of toe tapping and be great company on a drive. The final track "Dressing Up The Truth" is an upbeat trip down Memory Lane and closes the album in atmospheric fashion. The sleeve notes explain the school days which inspired this very nostalgic and clever track together with the adventures which will have given John considerable joy on his lifelong journey.
The one big advantage of reviewing a six-track album is that it is possible to mention each track without the piece become a tome to rival War & Peace. I rarely mention each track on an album review so I hope therefore that, this time, I have conveyed what a genuine quality addition to anyone's music library the purchase of "Weary" will make.
Rory M Stanbridge