Brushfire Fairytales

A Hawaiian native, Jack Johnson, wrote songs for his debut album, Brushfire Fairytales, that make you picture the warm ocean breeze whistling through swaying palm trees, under the Oahu sun. From the title of the album, you might've already guessed that the album is laidback and easy listening.

With a mellow and predominantly alto voice accompanied with acoustic guitar, which he plays, Johnson sings songs ranging from a gentle, swaying tempo to more upbeat rhythms. What is pleasant about Brushfire Fairytales, though, is that even the quicker songs are essentially soft rock, therefore maintaining the consistent, easy listening feel that is often overshadowed by today's hip-hop and hard pop sounds.

Brushfire Fairytales is maturely various in subject matter. The tracks tell of relationships, societal pressures and human morality. One of the more poignant songs is "The News," which speaks about tragedy constantly occurring in the world, and the desire for it all to be make-believe. Johnson sums up the idea, in his touching lyrics: "So baby close your eyes to the lullabies / On the news tonight."

You may recall his single, "Flake," the only single released from Brushfire Fairytales. In this track, we get to hear a bit of Johnson's mild soprano tone.

The friendly strumming and plucking of the acoustic guitar, selective mellow drumming, deep bass, and periodic piano go well with Johnson's voice and non-mainstream lyrics to create a delightful and insightful listen.

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