John Fogerty

Written by Glenn J. Wiener. Feel free to send him your comments!

John Fogerty's self titled second solo album is a strong collection of songs from the former Creedence Clearwater Revival leader. The songs cover a wide range of music especially "Dream/Song" which changes the style with each verse. My only complaint is that there is a limited amount of improvisation here. The album was not a commercial success. However, that fact only enhances the albums beauty as its boring just to like what the general public plus a few so called music experts tell you what is good. Overall, an excellent recording.

Rockin' All Over The World - A strong opener to this wonderful album. The guitar licks fill in nicely behind John's raspy delivery. The piano solo adds a nice change of pace. Bruce Springsteen has covered this version as several bootlegs will testify. If its good enough for the Bruce Man then it must be a very lalalalikeable song.

You Rascal You - A touch of humor with the "Auld Lang Syne" at the beginning. Mr. Zaentz, you should know old J. C. is not one to forgive and forget. Anyway, the horn section adds a soulful support to John's vocals here.

The Wall - This sounds slightly reminiscent to "Run Through The Jungle". The guitar and harmonica solos could be slightly longer. Still this song has a good raw feel about it.

Traveling High - A well crafted song with a striking horn riff. I kind of wish John would do a longer and more varied guitar solo here. However, this is still one of my favorite songs on the album.

Lonely Teardrops - I kind of wish John would have recorded the verses to this song as well. Its a little bit repetitive to the hear the same words over and over again. However, the soulful arrangement of this chorus is done well and the guitar solo is grade A!

Almost Saturday Night - A great mix between the raw guitar and smooth drumming. Probably the best guitar solos on the album are done here.

Where The River Flows - The relaxing gospel/country rhythm with appropriate vocal harmonies make me want to spend a day relaxing,... by listening to some John Fogerty music!

Sea Cruise - A nice New Orleans Jazz flavoring to this song. I like the horns especially at the fade off.

Dream/Song - Here we have the influences of folk, gospel, jazz, and rock all in one song. Coupled with touching lyrics this is the best John Fogerty song of all that I have heard.

Flying Away - Its good that John returns to a guitar based song for this album closer. Although the solo could be a bit more complex, the arrangement makes this song very enjoyable.

Overall Rating: 9.5 out of 10

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