And that's how JHJ rolls, every song they release was just as amazing as the last. From Shattered Dreams to Cracking Up, it creeps into your mind and heart and body until you are just moving uncontrollably to the beat of the music.
And then it stopped. Clark left to pursue a solo career and a new voice was heard (Phillip Thornalley) but even that couldn't keep the momentum going and all that was left was the memories made by the music that was created.
My grandma used to tell me that "Time heals all wounds" I wasn't sure what that meant because I was like 10 when she told me, but eventually I put two and two together. I guess the "Jazz" guys must have done the same thing because they decided to reform in 2009. I'm sure even then, there were plans to create a new album full of fresh ideas, new passions, new pains, new beginnings.
It wasn't until I had heard an interview with Clark Datchler and Mike Nocito on @rcremebrulee that just those thoughts were becoming a reality. I was astonished and very excited to hear that one of my favorite bands was working on a new album. I told anyone and everyone that I could about it any time I would bring up the subject of 80s bands and music "you know JHJ has a new album coming out" and they would say.."oh wow, really?" And I would smile knowing, as you do.
But these things can't be rushed, especially if they are to be perfection. Which is exactly what their new album is..
Flash forward, 25 years later...
THE very first song on the album..Magnetized, is one of the most heartfelt tunes I had heard in a while. The music is unmistakeable JHJ no doubt about that. The voice of Clark Datchler, sounds virtually amazing. I honestly thought for a minute that Clark was inside my head because that is how I completely and totally feel about our world that we live in "I can see it in your eyes, your a spirit I recognize, feelings I can not explain, I don't even know your name" to the chorus-- "Do we only live to die, or is it that our hearts are Magnetized and our worlds collide for a reason"
I knew that very moment, I had to have it, I didn't care what other songs were on the album, I needed to have that song. And slowly but surely, other songs were released as Magnetized was on Jango Radio, Nevermore and Release You..each one more touching and heart warming as the one before.
I thought to myself, that there was no possible way that the entire album could be this awesome, I mean lets face it, we've heard the "reunion" albums right? one maybe two good songs on it and the rest is filler, hell there's new bands coming out with albums like that now..but that's a rant for another blog.
I received the download on Monday the 6th of May and holy moly I was blown away! Every song on the album is fantastic. Every song.
I know what you're thinking "Rose, you are a fan, of course you are going to think all the songs are good" well that's what fans are supposed to do right?
Any way all of that aside, Magnetized, great album from a fabulous group of guys that are just wonderful musicians. Best of all? they know who their fans are and love and appreciate them.
Sorry Martin, @mcmaenza I know I said you should blog this but I couldn't help it. You would done a better job I think, but my enthusiasm got in the way.
So that's it for me today, thanks to @ErikaPinel who sparked the thoughts that gave me the motivation to finally get this out in print, I hope that in some way it helps JHJ moving forward into Tour mode and eventually coming to Seattle where I can see them live.
Another one of Grandma's sayings? "Good things come to those who wait"
I'm waiting guys. xx
