JP Soars - Southbound I-95

  by Lisa Torem

published: 28 / 4 / 2019

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Review

J.P. Soars’ fourth CD, ‘Southbound 1-95’ is destined to be a classic. Soars fell in love with the blues back in 1988, but since that time he has recorded and performed an impressive variety of styles, other than the blues. In fact, known to be an American festival favourite, this gritty vocalist/guitarist is fearless when it comes to tackling any genre that involves a six-string guitar or even his “home-made cigar box guitar,” on which he captivates crowds with slick slide technique. His influences include T-Bone Walker, Django Reinhardt, Tito Puente, Willie Nelson, Black Sabbath and Metallica, and on ‘Southbound I-95’, the listener immediately understands how inventive this hard-working musician can be. ‘Ain’t No Dania Beach’ features his crusty voice and laid-back approach to arranging. On this tune, he admits that he can’t just be satisfied with an “ice-cold beer” any place other than this dream locale. On ‘Sure as Hell Ain’t Foolin’ Me,’ he features his highly-charged guitar as he delivers vocal jabs at a too-gutsy lover. The immaculate solo work marries deep skill and a highly-developed sense of imagination. The title song centres around a contagious Peter Gunn-like line. It’s a surf-friendly romp which is sure to put a grin on one’s face. Soars demonstrates a deep comprehension of who and what has come before his time. ‘The Grass Ain’t Always Greener,’ is a return to 1950’s rock ‘n’ roll, whilst the ballad, ‘Shining Through the Dark’ takes an about turn. Soars ventures into this pop ballad with great enthuse; it is flavoured with sax, bright backing singers and a bleeding organ. ‘Troubled Waters’ is another catchy ballad with a hard core message. But just when you think you’ve got him pegged, Soars changes up the game. ‘Arkansas Porch Party’ is a fascinating bluegrass stomp. ‘Satisfy My Soul’ hearkens to R & B and in ‘Born in California,’ the exciting riff sets up the party beat and refuses to bow to any bystander. ‘Across the Desert’ is another crisp, enchanting instrumental. Not surprisingly, ‘Go with The Flow’ is an amalgam of positive, sonic vibes. The crazy beats that lead it off were performed by the talented Jeremy Staskal; Scott Ankrom gave it his all when he picked up his clarinet. The album features many more guest artists, too, that truly enhance the fifteen original songs. ‘Southbound 1-95’ will appeal to a diverse fan base and will leave anyone who listens begging for more.

Track Listing:-

1 Ain't No Dania Beach
2 Sure as Hell Ain't Foolin' Me
3 Southbound I-95
4 Shining Though the Dark
5 The Grass Ain't Always Greener
6 Arkansas Porch Party
7 Satisfy My Soul
8 Born in California
9 When You Walk out That Door
10 Deep Down in Florida
11 Across the Desert
12 Dog Catcher
13 Troubled Waters
14 Go with the Flow
15 Sure as Hell Ain't Foolin' Me (Radio Edit)