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Music Reviews:

Eric Johnson - Up Close

EMI/Vortexan Music – 2011
 

"Awaken" is a little instrumental piece that sets in motion the journey Eric Johnson takes us on this time out.

Johnson's signature clean distorted guitar sets the boogie groove of "Fatdaddy."  EJ swashbucklers through southern rock riffs and his clean lead runs.  One of the coolest things about this second song was listening to Chris Maresh's bass traveling the same quick notes as EJ.

Malford Milligan's gutsy vocals are a strong part of "Brilliant Room."  Johnson releases his guitar fury in little doses, which I think he should allow happen more often.

EJ couldn't have picked a better song to recreate than "Texas."  The State, music connotations all seem to be what Eric Johnson is all about.  Bluesy, sweltering guitar riffs cry out.  The Space Cowboy himself Steve Miller provides the vocals, which are appropriately dusty.

Johnson captures that magical guitar tone he's so famous for in "Gem."  It almost has the feel of Asian heritage and it absolutely strikingly delightful to listen to.

Jonny Lang's vocals interconnect flawlessly with EJ's guitar to tell the story of "Austin."  It's a heartfelt tune with kind of bright dreamy mix.

In "Soul Surprise" the dirty, nasty distorted guitar parts way back of the song contrasts the super clean distortion and beautiful composition encompassing it.

I felt like I was in a farm or horse ranch while listening to EJ kick up the dirt in "On The Way."

Johnson sings on the tenth track "Arithmetic."  His guitar is hauntingly memorable.  Join a party in "Vortexan" as the band celebrates the good times.

EJ sings another one of his blissful tunes with "A Change Has Come To Me."  Then he finishes up this CD with "Your Book," which will leave you with a smile.

www.ericjohnson.com