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Big wheels have been turning inside Johnny Favorite’s head, and the results are
spectacular. The Tonight Album showcases Johnny’s versatility and creativity,
complemented by a stellar group of backup musicians. The album, which expands his
musical boundaries to explore the wider realm of pop music,
has been this blue-eyed Newfoundlander’s first solo effort since his departure from the Johnny Favourite Swing
Orchestra. It is sure to make a great impact on the contemporary music scene.
The Tonight Album is a combination of ska, funk, and Sinatra-like
arrangements, with a smooth horn section led by Richard Underhill that helps to create a
full, big band sound. This record is a follow-up to Favourite’s last release, Holiday
Romance, which brought home a Juno award, a dozen nominations at the East Coast
Music Awards and gave Johhny his swingin’ reputation (in music, that is!). This solo
masterpiece, however, proves to listeners that his talent doesn’t end at “Rootbeer And
Licorice", and neither does his broad musical repertoire. With a new nine-piece band
and twelve foot-tapping, finger-snapping songs that are no less than fantastic, Johnny has
taken his music to another level. Found on this album are potential hits like the electric
“Yeh Yeh", a cover of a 1960’s Georgie Fame classic, funny pieces like “Let’s Do It",
and a couple of laid-back numbers laced with guitars and sultry saxophones, including
the track “Always Coming Home". “Media Darling" speaks of the tragedy of “fading
stars", while the title track is a delightfully pleasant tune with an atmosphere that brings
to mind the bouncy, carefree swing of “Singin’ In The Rain", and also includes fiddle
playing by Cape Breton’s own Natalie MacMaster. “Someday" adds a touch of gospel to
the collection.
With a new album, a new band, and a whole new sound, Johnny Favourite will no
doubt shine, not only as an East Coast artist but as a musician of the world. The
Tonight Album is the perfect advocate for the new millennium: new, different,
exciting. Listening to this album will not leave the owner disappointed...
By Betsy MacDonald, CanEHdian.com
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