It can be hard to come across music that is easy listening with meaning but J Burn has mastered that with his May 5 release Randomly Banded. With repose J Burn creates music that is ideal for driving around on a nice day or drifting away on a boat.
J Burn has six equally skilled musicians in his arsenal that help him create his full, nearly orchestrated sound. Jason Crosby is the real star of this team with his funky, optimistic melodies on the electric organ.
“Shine” is the first track on the album, and the title fits perfectly with the cheerful lyrics and bright timbres that are brought out of the percussion and rhythmic section. “Certainly Know” is next and starts with confident, sturdy vocals that occasionally delve into a dreamy melody.
“Been Around” is the kind of song that makes a walking listener adapt their gait to match the beat of the song and dominate a city street with an effortless cool. The album quickly fades into “Hand For You” which picks the classic rock element back up and drives it to an unwavering close.
“Moonshine” is one of the more emotional songs on the album with an aching melody, and a flowing lead up to a beautiful piano line. “Entranced” is the most pointedly country song on the album with plucky bass and guitar work and rugged vocals. “Unless I” closes Randomly Banded with a gorgeous arrangement. Every instrument on this song has strict meaning, and correlates with the somber story J Burn’s vocals are etching out.
Randomly Banded is a smart album that will please fans of classic rock, country and folk alike. This album has something for everyone who needs to unwind after a hectic day and enjoy the beauty in life.