Post by jptheprofessor on Apr 29, 2007 21:38:03 GMT -5
JUSTIN MACK – LONG ROAD HOME (no label) Over the past few years, Portage native Justin Mackovyak – a.k.a. Justin Mack – has logged a lot of miles through performing on stages from Happy Valley (Penn State) to Key West and back. He has accrued some life experiences and learned some lessons along the way, and he shares some introspective insight on his third album, Long Road Home. Justin offers autobiographical themes of soul-searching over the album's nine tracks, with a musical blend of rock, folk, country, and even Celtic sounds providing the backdrop. Johnny Cash serves as a reference point on the album, first informing the powerful and anthemic album-opener "N.F.A.," which documents Justin's decision to set out on his own. Justin also offers a poignant update of a Man-In-Black classic, "Long Black Veil," showcasing beautiful backing harmonies with guest singer Tracy Roberts. Several songs are confessionals where Justin ponders his own course; where he has been, where he is going, and his own dreams and emotions. He weighs past decisions and his path thus far on the country-tinged “Morning.” His half-narrative, half-sung "Killing November" contemplates mortality, and how he'll be remembered after the fact. The Celtic-driven "Hope Road" is Justin’s proud and defiant statement of doing things his own way. A slight diversion from the more serious tones of the album is “Every New Day,” a harder-rocking, sassy ode to a one-night stand. The album also includes two bonus tracks at the end, including a live performance of an earlier song from his July Songs debut, “Free.” Justin delivers his strongest and most heartfelt vocal performance yet, smoothly gearshifting from subtle crooning to gritty and boisterous howls. A number of musical friends help color and fully bring Justin’s songs to life; including Jason Franklin on banjo, pianist Bob Manor, drummers Lisa Sendzik and Tommy Tipton, and guitarists Jimi Hatt (ex-Hair Force One), Travis Link, James Magilton and Jerry Spaid. Recorded between several studios and mastered by Bret Alexander and Paul Smith at Danville’s Saturation Acres, Long Road Home sounds cohesive and consistent; with the various components effectively blended and layered to create a full, complete sound. Long Road Home is defining album for Justin Mack that shows growth and maturity. It is a thoughtful album from an artist who has lived some life and learned more about himself along the journey. (The CD can be obtained through Justin's website, www.seventides.net.)