An Honest Find - The Jodie Manross Band
Daniel E. Carsen | Brookline, MA, USA | 12/28/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"It's easy to sum up a review of the Jodie Manross Band's "going somewhere soon" in two words: "Buy this." Explaining my rave takes a few more than two words, but they're just as easy to write.
This album is as eclectic and emotionally diverse as life; the tracks range from haunting to angry to exultant, but all flex a tight, clear virtuosity rare in today's crap-saturated music market. Manross's rich vocals and thought-planting lyrics stir the innards of even this typically obtuse guy, the percussion induces head-bopping throughout, and though this is not a classic rock or old-metal band, the guitar carries the same power as some of Led Zeppelin's bluesier numbers. Most of the tracks feature surprising, unpredictable bridges and a quirky energy that can only be called original. These are obviously flexible musicians who are pushing and exploring - artists with versatility, and even something to "say."
The first track, "Manhattan," grabs your attention, and that's good because you're then prepared for more than an hour of the same. Two of my other favorites were track 9, "Hope Against History," a funky, tight stimulant of a song with a slightly hard taste, and track 14, "River Song," deceptively simple yet spiritually textured with classic blues feel. This last track has a sweet surprise after the "end," but it's not quite as sweet as the happy fluke of coming across this small but powerful collection of musicians. The Jodie Manross band is an honest band, and an honest find."
Just keeps getting better
Brian Bender | Chattanooga, TN United States | 12/04/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Prepare to be blown away by this CD. The songwriting is insightful and inspiring, and the musicianship is top-notch. Jodie's voice is amazing and powerful, and Laith's guitar work is simply - wow. I have no idea how to categorize their music, and that is part of what makes it great. I love "Still" and all of its great songs, but this CD surpasses it with its excellent quality and production (and even more songs!) "Going Somewhere Soon" is in heavy rotation on my stereo, and hopefully soon it will be on yours as well. Now if only they would record that swingin' version of "Summertime" that they do live..."
"Going Somewhere Soon" delivers...
Rachel Knowles | Boulder, CO | 11/05/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"The Jodie Manross Band has accomplished something extremely rare in the music business: their sophomore album "Going Somewhere Soon" shows that they have grown and matured musically, while they have still maintained their superb originality. In short: they still ROCK like no other band i've ever seen or heard. Jodie's powerhouse voice has a way of combining every music genre, and yet standing out in a class of its own. The same goes for Laith's amazing guitarwork (i have yet to see anyone play guitar as fast and as smoothe as this man), Andre's driving bass lines, and Nate's unbelievable percussion (he plays so fast and so hard, you can barely see his hands move when they play live). If I had to label their music, I would say "grassroots rock" - but, to be honest, I believe the Jodie Manross Band deserves their own category. If you have become disheartened with today's music, buy this album - I guarantee it will rock your world."
Track Listings (14) - Disc #1