Jon Strider
FRESH TRACKS
New Sky Records
***
Upbeat country blues perfect for a rainy day
Apple Pie is the first track on FRESH TRACKS, full of rich flavours of country pop. With light and airy lyrics accompanied by friendly listening lap steel guitar playing, Jon’s smooth country tinged vocals sit comfortably on this self written track. Playing pump organ, piano, offering lead vocals, keyboards, synthesiser, acoustic and electric guitar, Jon flaunts his endless talents on his latest release, bringing joy to the hearts of his listeners. With all ten tracks penned by Strider, Jon displays how he is not only a fine musician but a superb writer, creating some of the sweetest melodies fitted with some poetic words, such as the wondrous Midsummers Day. There’s A Road is an enjoyable tune, but is slightly average with nothing spectacular about the song. Radio friendly, this does not mean to say this is a poor song, for the instruments are playing effortlessly, however Jon’s vocals sound mundane bringing this song to an average when it could have been a bigger success. The majority of the songs on FRESH TRACKS are enjoyable, but if you are seeking an album which will make an impression on you, I’m afraid this is not it. Charlotte Bones
www.jonstrider.com