Jack is Back–A Sleepy Classic?

26th February 2008

This post was written by Benji

I’ve always found it odd how polarizing Jack Johnson has been throughout his musical career. For some one who has made it his aural mission to chill as best he can, I find it interesting that critics will often attack him for lacking substance. Perhaps it is more so the aura surrounding Jack that irks people than the actual music. To imply Jack Johnson is somewhat of a lesser musician may not entirely be off base, but I contend that Jack isn’t putting himself on a pedestal either.

The point is to be able to appreciate him for his Jackness, being able to enjoy his music for what it is and not what one may think it should be. And certainly Jack’s new album Sleep Through the Static is another paradigm. While there is a noticeable shift in Jack’s approach on his latest LP, in some senses his updated style is a return to basics. Simple hoppy pianos, soul-infused acoustic guitars, and always Jack’s soothing vocals make this album a sleepy classic but certainly not static. Jack has also returned to extensive use of wordplay–what I always look forward to in his music. Sleep Through the Static is a sonic delight, no matter what side of the Jack Johnson fence you’re on. As for the critics–maybe it’s time to step down from your pedestal.

Purchase Sleep Through the Static.

Listen to “If I Had Eyes” (4.8/5)

Listen to “Monsoon” (4.6/5) [**wordplay**]

This entry was posted on Tuesday, February 26th, 2008 at 10:44 am and is filed under Jack Johnson. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

There are currently 2 responses to “Jack is Back–A Sleepy Classic?”

Why not let us know what you think by adding your own comment! Your opinion is as valid as anyone elses, so come on... let us know what you think.

1 On February 26th, 2008, Benji said:
I really thought I’d get some good old lashing out by now…

posted on February 26th, 2008 at 6:48 pm
2 On February 27th, 2008, Carl Sandburg visited me in a dream said:
Benji,
As an avid Jack fan i will tell you that he has produced some great albums and some that were not so great. I think this latest one is more of an exploration for him, i think he is experimenting with some new styles and that it is a transition album; one that will take him off the chill music playlist and onto one that is more serious and folk-y. Essentially from DJ beesknees to something more along the lines of DJ all grown up.

posted on February 27th, 2008 at 7:15 pm

Carl Sandburg Visits Me In A Dream
Carl Sandburg Visits Me In A Dream will serve as a blog for me to share my thoughts and musings, with a special emphasis on music. The music that will appear in this blog is for evaluation/sampling purposes only, and is designed to promote up and coming bands. Remember, if you like the artist(s), buy the CD! If you are the owner of a sound file and would like it removed, please contact us and we will kindly take it down.