EJ Vol. II
Vortexan, 2020
8/10
In 2016 the Austin, Texas artist Eric Johnson released a collection of acoustic based tunes titled EJ, and here the multi-instrumentalist, vocalist and composer returns with some plugged in help, where he offers 2 well done covers, too.
“Waterwheel” starts the listen with spirited guitar work and breezy melodies in the soft rock setting, and this continues to the agile and reflective “Gifts Of Love”, where Johnson’s expressive vocals draw us in immediately.
Near the middle, “Let A Friend Find You” shows us what Johnson is capable of with just his strong guitar prowess and melodic pipes, while “Lake Travis” offers precise and acrobatic picking in the instrumental setting. “Different Folks”, one of the best tunes present, then injects piano into the calm and moving landscape.
Close to the end, the piano balladry of “For The Stars” leaves a warm impression, and Johnson’s interpretation of Bert Jansch’s “Black Waterslide” exits the listen with a guitar focused instrumental that certainly does justice to the classic.
A listen that’s not short on guitar solos and even occasionally brings in strings and lap steel, if you have an inclination towards guitar music, you won’t be disappointed here.
Travels well with: Joe Bonnamassa- Live At The Sydney Opera House; Reese Wynans- Sweet Release