|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
LP
|
|
FAI 013LP
|
John Johanna's eclectic output uses psychedelia and oriental tonalities, primal gospel blues and folk -- among other ingredients -- to create a body of diverse, yet coherent devotional music. A singer and multi-instrumentalist who works on cassette and reel-to-reel tape at his home in rural Norfolk, and with Kristian Craig Robinson (Capitol K) at Total Refreshment Centre in London, his songs are informed by the mystical cosmology of the Eastern Orthodox Church. I'll Be Ready When The Great Day Comes, his debut vinyl release, draws from a range of John Johanna pieces gathering four remastered tracks which previously appeared on a now sold-out limited cassette tape run, and four new tunes. Leaning in part to the acoustic and dark balladeer aspect of his music, whilst drum machine and blues pieces hint to what's to comes in future. "Bound" is the most personal piece; written with a deceased friend in mind it recalls discussions on Greek mythology of Prometheus. "Rock My Soul" is an adaptation of traditional words from blues gospel lineage. "Knowledge And Power, Nathaniel" is a raga. "I'll Be Ready When The Great Day Comes" has a full live band accompaniment. The words of "World Unknown" come from the 1700's hymn writer and theologian, Isaac Watts. A lot of John Johanna's material takes its cue and shares from a rich tradition of mystical spiritualist music words and motifs. Characteristically appearing live accompanied with a four-track tape deck, his incredible voice and simple raw guitar style always recalls a pure mysticism. He's played sets at End Of The Road Festival and multiple supporting slots with label mates Blue House and Super Best Friends Club, amongst others. Artwork illustration by Chris Bianchi (Le Gun, Bare Bones). A3 250gsm poster print, folded over in clear liner. Edition of 200.
|