Something To Look Forward To
Propellor, 2023
8/10
Listen to Something To Look Forward To
An Indiana musician, lawyer and record executive, John P. Strohm began his career in the punk scene and played in bands you might recall like Antenna, Blake Babies and, most notably, The Lemonheads.
These days he’s taking the solo route, and this 4th album is dedicated to his friend and former bandmate Ed Ackerman (of Polara fame), who passed away in 2019.
The warm spirit of “Ready For Nothing” opens the listen, where crisp drums and expressive singing makes for a rootsy feel, and “Ruins” follows with graceful keys and soulful singing that floats close to balladry.
The dreamy “Lancaster” lands in the middle and is heavy on atmosphere and mood thanks to the poetic vocals and gentle guitar, while the bright and breezy “Don’t Tell It To Your Heart” is a punchy folk-rocker that’s timeless and melodic.
The final two tracks are among the best, where “Counting Backwards” flows with a gentle, soothing approach of cautious songwriting, and “A + B = Y” exits with intimate acoustic guitar and much sincerity.
This is Strohm’s 4th solo effort and first since 2007. He maintains some of the grit of his punk fueled youth, where both vulnerable and animated moments populate this mature, timeless listen.
Travels well with: Nathan Mongol Wells- From A Dark Corner; Joey Frendo- Bound For Heartache