Eric Johanson “The Deep And The Dirty” Review
Introduction
Delving deep into the world of blues rock can be daunting with its wide range of artists to explore. Stepping in to simplify your search is Eric Johanson’s latest album “The Deep And The Dirty”. This blog post will serve as a detailed guide and review, dissecting the key elements that make this album a standout in its genre. Ready? Let’s tune into Johanson’s universe!
Key Takeaways:
• The album is a blues rock album by Johanson that showcases his exceptional guitar skills and musical influences.
• The album features 12 enthralling songs recorded live in the studio, giving them a raw energy and gritty appeal. • Key tracks like “Don’t Hold Back,” “The Deep And The Dirty,” and “She Is The Song” highlight Johanson’s ability to merge different genres while maintaining his signature style.
Release and label information
The album was released July 28 via Ruf Record. It is available in various formats, showcasing Johanson’s exceptional guitar skills and a wide range of musical influences.
Overview of the release
Eric made quite a stir with the release of his latest studio album. Serving as both the musician and lyricist, he joined forces with producer Jesse Dayton to shape this 12-song masterpiece.
Fans will also appreciate contributions from bassist Eric Vogel and Grammy-winning drummer Terrence Higgins. Each song tells its unique story leading up to the concluding track, “She Is The Song.” This carefully crafted musical journey showcases not only Johanson’s talent but also brings forth an excellent collaboration between all artists involved in this record release.
Format details
Eric Johanson brings out the authenticity of his music in “The Deep And The Dirty” through its unique format. The album comprises 12 enthralling songs that were not crafted behind closed doors but recorded live in the studio under pandemic restrictions.
1. “Don’t Hold Back”
2. “The Deep And The Dirty”
3. “Beyond The Sky”
4. “Undertow”
5. “Just Like New”
6. “Elysian Fields”
7. “Galaxy Girl”
8. “Familiar Sound”
9. “Gets Me High”
10. “Stepping Stone”
11. “Borrowed Time”
12. “She Is The Song
This unconventional approach gave a raw energy to each track, enhancing the gritty appeal of this blues-infused collection. Musical chemistry plays a crucial role in shaping the dynamic sound of the album. Eric Vogel on bass and Terence Higgins, a Grammy-winning drummer, join Johanson in this creative endeavor. Their collaborative prowess ensures that each instrument has room to breathe within the mix, resulting in an alive and fresh soundscape throughout.
Detailed Review of Album
In this section, we will dive into a detailed analysis of the key tracks on the album. We will evaluate both the musical and lyrical elements present in each track, highlighting the strength and skill of this blues rock guitarist.
Analysis of key tracks
This album is a force to be reckoned with, showcasing Johanson’s skills as an electric whiz with a sweet slide game. Prepare yourself for a musical journey like no other, as this Louisiana-born guitarist takes you on a soul-stirring ride through the realms of blues and rock. In this man’s opinion here are some of the standouts:
“Beyond the Sky”:
The album starts with “Beyond the Sky,” where Eric Johanson’s powerful and soulful voice shines. The track features sturdy riffs that harken back to the bluesy-rock era of bands like Free.
“Stepping Stone”:
In “Stepping Stone,” Johanson delves into gutsy blues rock with a touch of Gary Moore’s style. The electric leads and slide solos on the National Resonator guitar add an impressive touch to this track.
“Don’t Hold Back”:
Opening with crunchy Robin Trower-inflected guitar work, “Don’t Hold Back” demonstrates Johanson’s ability to run his guitar through distortion effects, creating a bold and engaging musical experience.
“Galaxy Girl”
“Galaxy Girl” takes listeners on a pulsating and energetic journey with its captivating rhythm and mesmerizing guitar play. The groove hits full swamp mode in this track.
“Undertow”:
Adding funk and soul elements, “Undertow” features a taut rhythm section laying down a throbbing beat. This original track could easily be mistaken for a hidden gem from Rory Gallagher’s catalog.
“Familiar Sound”:
This emotionally charged track delves into the theme of trying to escape depression, only to find it returning persistently. Johanson’s double-tracked acoustic slide and electric guitars add depth to the swampy groove.
“Borrowed Time”:
With slide work that stands out, “Borrowed Time” is an introspective Southern rock piece. The lyrics speak of attempting to distance oneself from the past, creating a haunting and reflective atmosphere.
“She Is the Song”:
The final song, on the album stays true to the classic blues style. Johansons innovative use of chords adds a captivating touch, to this track. His guitar skills are showcased beautifully
Evaluation of musical and lyrical elements
The musical and lyrical elements of “The Deep and The Dirty” are truly captivating. Eric Johanson’s guitar skills shine throughout the album, with his inspired six-string pyrotechnics leaving a lasting impression. Each track showcases a fusion of genres, combining modern heavy blues rock with more roots-oriented moments. The lyrics are thoughtfully crafted, delving into deep themes while maintaining an accessible quality. The instrumental dynamics add another layer to the overall sound, creating a fresh and alive soundscape that allows each instrument to have room to breathe. It’s clear that “The Deep and The Dirty” is a remarkable album that excels both musically and lyrically.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In conclusion, “Eric Johanson: The Deep And The Dirty” is a blues rock album that showcases the strength and pyrotechnics of Eric Johanson as a guitarist. With influences ranging from blues legends to hard rock and Americana, the album offers a wide-ranging and searing musical experience. Whether it’s the heavy rock songs or the laidback Americana-infused tracks, Eric Johanson’s talent shines throughout this pristinely-sounding album. Overall, “The Deep And The Dirty” is a must-listen for fans of blues music and anyone who appreciates exceptional guitar performances.
FAQ’s
Q: What is the album “The Deep and The Dirty” about?
A: The album “Eric Johanson – The Deep and The Dirty” is a review of Eric Johanson’s bluesy and eclectic music, with a focus on the title track.
Q: Who is Eric Johanson?
A: Eric Johanson is a Louisiana native and a talented bluesman known for his soulful songwriting and impressive fretwork.
Q: Is “The Deep and The Dirty” available on the Billboard Blues chart?
A: Yes, it is and has reached the top 10 on the Billboard Blues chart.
Q: What are some notable songs on the album?
A: Some notable songs on the album include “The Deep and The Dirty,” “Don’t Hold Back,” “Familiar Sound,” “Beyond the Sky,” “Just Like New,” “Stepping Stone,” “Elysian Fields,” “Galaxy Girl,” and “Undertow.”
Q: Did He record all the songs on the album separately?
A: No, it was recorded the songs on the album as a whole, capturing the rawness and energy of his live performances.
Q: Who is the drummer on the album?
A: The album features drummer Terence Higgins, who adds depth and groove to Eric Johanson’s music.
Q: Can you tell me more about the music style on the album?
A: The music style on the album is a mix of blues, rock, and roadhouse flavors, with influences from artists like Rob Zombie, Jimi Hendrix, and others.
Q: Where was the album recorded?
A: The album was recorded in New Orleans during the 2010s, capturing the essence of the city’s vibrant music scene.
Q: What is the overall impression of the album?
A: The album showcases Eric’s exceptional songwriting and his ability to deliver a familiar sound with a fresh and unique twist.
Q: Where can I find more information about Eric Johanson and his music?
A: For more information about Eric Johanson and his music, you can visit Eric Johanson’s website or check out his social media profiles.
