Search - Molly Johnson :: Molly Johnson

Perfection

Walter Goodman | kingston, ontario | 03/17/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is an album i've been waiting for for a long time. Ms Johnson has been a fixture on the Toronto scene for ever (relatively speaking given her age) and has always had an impecable reputation for class and talent. She was instrumental in developing the Kumbaya festival for Aids research in Toronto getting together the cream of Canadian talent for the festival for a couple of years in the 80's. Also in the 80's she was in a bad called the Infidels which performed harder edged songs that was moderately successful.
Well after a loooooong wait we get this album and it was worth the wait. This album is beautiful, intelligent, classy, in a word - perfect!!! It is quite a hybrid of jazz, pop and blues without a weak song in the collection. Her version of Billie Holiday's 'Don't Explain' is amazingly haunting and for me, the highlight of the album. I would even venture to say it surpasses Ms Holiday's. From the first listen, I was hooked and if you appreciate good music from a unique talent then this is the album for you.
Addendum: Molly Johnson's follow up 'Another Day' is every bit as wonderful!"

Smoothjazz.com Review

Sandy Shore | Monterey, CA | 06/21/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"What can I say? I have a weakness for the real deal... Molly Johnson is as close to perfect as it gets with regard to her assortment of cool and sassy songs on her self-titled debut album. The diversity of song styles on MOLLY JOHNSON just some how meld together into a comprehensive collection. A sophisticated effort, indeed with nods to classic styles of Billie Holiday and Dinah Washington, but that's not where it ends by any means... Think also Janis Joplin and perhaps more contemporary, Lucinda Williams. The songs are clever as well. I like every single one of them. From the sultry, "My Oh My," to the lush and cynical, "Long Wave Goodbye" which features the very last recorded effort by the late Stephane Grappelli. "I made a promise to myself that I would sooner rot in hell than spend another moment with you..." she croons beautifully on this one. Yet, my favorite track on the project is the hit-sounding, "Diamond In My Hand." Also really appreciate the jazzy, "It's Only Love (and I believed you)" the Smoothjazz.com Hot Pick, "Sweetest World," and speaking of Billie Holiday, wait until you hear Molly's version of "Don't Explain." This listening experience is filled with wow factor from beginning to end, from production to arrangement. It's a fantastic release and there's no wonder why Marquis is re-releasing the renowned Canadian's first foray into music. Give Norah and Diana a break and insert Molly into the player! ~Sandy Shore"