Reviewed by Alan & Angeline Chesters

John had released a previous album. 'Hair Today', by the time he was Included in CR4n in a feature focusing on children's work. He continues to work in Bradford schools supported by the Zephaniah Trust. 'Seriously...' was recorded and mixed in two days, with no out takes. John says. "Much of it is my personal story." His clever songwriting and vocal confidence is complimented by a seriously good team of bucking vocal, musicians and the production of Daniel Bowater and Jon Blamires. The 11 songs, lasting 50 mins. become catchy with hearing and have no sameness to them. The lyrics are clear but I would have preferred the simple packaging to include them. The opening track. "Burdens", has the feel of a Bryn Haworth song. "21st Century Prophet" doesn't mince words, relating "this lottery nation has no sure Foundation" and proclaiming the foundation which is needed. "Tell Me" is a delightful plea to a young lady to consider the "perfect guy". Jesus, rather than remain lost. John includes a fun song, "Stressed" (I think he needs our support!) and ends with "Seriously Unrehearsed", which contains "dreading the reviews". I think he must be a very likeable guy and seriously deserves to be heard further afield than his own neck of the woods.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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