John Andrews - Johnny Was EP Review

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John Andrews is a 30 year old singer songwriter hailing from East Belfast. He released his debut EP in 2014 but has now returned with his second offering "Johnny Was". John has garnered a respectable following in Belfast through extensive gigging and playing at festivals such as the Eastside Arts Festival, Sunflower Fest and Fiele Fest. His music has been described as gritty, raw and honest. His influences vary from Frank Sinatra to Eminem and The Doors to Kendrick Lamar.



The opening track from the EP is "Pray". It begins with the musings of a preacher followed closely by an incredible blues beat. From the first word, it's obvious that John has a captivating voice that commands respect. The tempo and grittiness of "Pray" is truly impressive.
"Don't Let Me Fade Away" takes the listener down to another level which is more laid back and incredibly intriguing. There is a definite Radiohead vibe to it. Another cracking song.
Next up is the creepy as hell "Wolves". John's ability to switch between genres is very commendable. Three songs in and so far three outstanding tracks.
"Love Letter" is yet another completely different offering. This one is more upbeat and poppy. It's a bit like The National if The National weren't such miserable cunts.
The EP ends with "Love Sick Blues". The finger picking on here gets me every time. I'm a sucker for the noise of a chord change. This song really shows why John has been described as gritty and honest.

"Johnny Was" was and is an absolutely stunningly good EP. Probably the best I've heard all year. I honestly can't wait to hear more from this man.



Check out these awesome live performances from John Andrews from Crumlin Road Gaol.


Love Sick Blues

Get Up





Comments

  1. Unknown25 August 2018 at 04:38

    Describes this EP to a tee. I love it!!! although seeing John live is sumthin else!!!

    ReplyDelete

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