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CD REVIEW: Johnny Action Figure does good

by Lisa Schaeffer
Weekender Correspondent.

It is pretty much impossible to pigeonhole Johnny Action Figure into one musical category. Incorporating elements of jazz, progressive rock, r&b and more, the band’s latest release “Good Eye” is infused with numerous genres that combine to make a genuinely unique and interesting album. “Good Eye” is the third album for the Pennsylvania-based Johnny Action Figure. Formed in 1999, Johnny Action Figure was created by Chris Sheehan and Brendan Fullam, and the duo subsequently added Christopher Fullam and Brad Rittle.

Although all of the band’s members are well under the age of 30, their influences go back to way before they were born. Inspired by the likes of The Beatles and other veteran musicians, this band’s sound can be described as classic. Even though Johnny Action Figure has turned to expert inspirations when it comes to writing its own brand of melodic rock music, it effectively puts a modern spin on its end product. It has successfully fused many types of music together, giving it a definite edge over other bands out there. Even though the band has a mature sound, it has managed to take elements of jazz and rock and has updated them with its own style to create a very uniquely modern sound.

“Good Eye” is one of those rare releases where the entire thing is worth listening to. Each of this album’s 12 tracks is different than the one before it. The majority of songs on this effort are mellow yet intricate enough to hold the attention of listeners. The band begins with “Phantom Blues.” The intro has a bluegrass feel to it and is incredibly catchy, as are many songs on the album. Listeners will note that “Good Eye” is filled with jazzy breakdowns and parts that verge on old-school rock ’n’ roll at times. The song “Good Eye” is melodic and slow-paced and was definitely a good pick for the album’s title track.

In addition to writing interesting music, Johnny Action Figure is incredibly talented at writing impressive and distinct vocals. The band has mastered the art of harmonizing, which it does throughout much of this album, showing off just what amazing vocalists the band members really are.

This band has an undeniable knack for creative and original music writing, making “Good Eye” worth picking up.

Rating: W W W W


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Lisa Schaeffer - Weekender Correspondent.  
weekender@theweekender.com