Jonathan Auerbach: Press

BEST NEW MUSIC I'VE HEARD IN YEARS...

I got Jonathan Auerbach's new CD, Siren Call, back in July. Best new music I've heard in years. It's a dancing ride, man. "Keepin' It Real" opens my radio show and "The Dark" closes it. Come alive...

HONEST, PURE & SOULFUL!
A PASSIONATE, TIMELESS RECORDING.

Having worked as a record label exec for 15 years, I've seen a lot of artists set back their careers with the release of their 2nd record, often referred to as the "Sophmore Slump". I believe this happens when many artists "overthink" the entire process when making the record. On Siren Call, Jonathan Auerbach's 2nd release, he "underthought" it in a way that proves just how prolific and honest an artist he truly is. Instead of overplaying/overproduction on Siren Call, (JA) plays, writes and sings like his life depended on "transfixing" these songs and messages into the hearts and ears of his devoted fanbase. For those who have already set sail with JA, you know where I'm coming from. For those about to come on board for the first time, climb on deck and get ready to embark on an invigorating journey about experiences in which we can all relate. High praise to the rippin' band that backs JA on Siren Call, and to the infinitely soulful Pam McCann whose ethereal & angelic voice will haunt you long after you've come ashore.

HONEST ROCK WITH WITH A SOPHISTICATED BENT

On "Siren Call," the songwriting, musicianship, production, engineering and honest delivery of this album speaks for itself. Unique male vocals offer a refreshing departure from the throngs of predictable vocalists and phrasing choices out there fatiguing the ear. The songs flow into each other smoothly while maintaining a sense of adventure. The aptly entitled Siren Call definitely lures the listener to some uncharted deep waters and exotic ports. Suggested Listening volume: crashing waves!

Singer/songwriter Jonathan Auerbach coming to a restaurant near you...

Jonathan Auerbach, rock guitarist, singer and songwriter, celebrates the completion of his second CD on Saturday, April 28 at the Common Man in Ashland…The CD, “Siren Call,” features Auerbach and a backup band, which consists of electric guitarist Bob Britt, drummer and percussionist Angelo Collura, electric bassist David Santos and vocalist Pam McCann – players who have recorded with musicians such as Bonnie Raitt, Bob Dylan, Crosby, Stills and Nash, Billy Joel, and John Fogerty…“Siren Call” features all-original music, and was recorded at The Grotto Studio in Nashville, TN. Auerbach has a full tour scheduled for 2007 to 2008. “I am very proud of this record,” Auerbach said…Auerbach is not only focused on his music. He is a member of the Leadership Council at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute and projects to raise and to donate a total of $19,000 by July 2007 for this Institute and its Jimmy Fund. A portion of all the money Auerbach generates through his music is donated to these causes.

"Meets All Roots Rock Criteria"
JAM Magazine - October 2004

Roots rock music needs several things to make it work. It starts with strong rock rhythms presented in their raw state - unadulterated by too much electronic gimmickry. Like any good rock music, it needs musical and vocal hooks that catch the ear and the mind. Finally, the lyrics have to, at least, give the impression that you should think about them - either because they are telling a story or because they have something semi-profound to say. Jonathan Auerbach's new album, Launch, meets all of the criteria. This is one of those albums that grows on you little by little. Some songs are headed in the direction of classic roots rockers like John Hiatt. One of my favorites is "Distant Drumming." It's got all the pieces here. It starts with a strong beat that makes me tap my feet. The repeated musical and vocal hook line is very catchy. And the best is that the lyrics are just a bit mysterious and interesting. I'm also partial to "The Heart is Long." This is one of several songs that Auerbach uses to examine the ups and downs of relationships. Along with "Lucky Stars" and "The Circle," it creates images of relationships that are easy to relate to. Production-wise this is a well done album with a crew of Nashville and L.A. session players who add some nice color to the sound. If you are a roots rock fan this is well worth checking out.

A TRUE AMERICAN ICONOCLAST
An auteur, a true American iconoclast, Jonathan evokes the sound of a wandering troubadour singing his way across the country. Check "Trance Rhythm" and "Lily of the Valium" for a taste...

JONATHAN'S 'LAUNCH' TAKES ME TO A PLACE FAR, FAR AWAY
Jonathan's music is nothing short of entrancing. One can't help but lose themselves in his prolific world. If you want a taste of his record listen to the track "Distant Drumming" to see what 'all the buzz' on Jonathan Auerbach is about.

SMART WRITING, SOLID PRODUCTION, ORIGINALITY ON DISPLAY! TERRIFIC!
Jonathan hits the mark with this eleven song set of personal reflection. His acoustic guitar playing comes through with authority and leads the way for these expertly produced tracks. The combination of smart lyric writing and honest vocal interpretation create an evocative listening experience. Good stuff!!

GREAT WRITING... STRONG LYRICS. MUSICALLY VERY TIGHT. UNIQUE VOCAL STYLE
With everything coming out sounding alike it is great to hear something like this. The CD means a lot to him and you can feel it coming through. Great writing...lyrics are really strong. Musically very tight and professional. Unique vocal style.

PERFECT BLEND OF WORDS AND MUSIC -- OUTSTANDING SONGWRITING
Mix great musical compositions topped with great powerful lyrics, and you have the music of Jonathan Auerbach on his debut CD, LAUNCH. My personal favorite track, Distant Drumming, is a perfect blend of words and music --outstanding songwriting.

THE FRESHEST MARRIAGE OF MUSIC AND LYRICS THAT I'VE HEARD IN MANY YEARS!
Mr. Auerbach offers the freshest marriage of music and lyrics that I've heard in many years. As with one of my favorite tracks, “Distant Drumming,” the music lures, but he captures heart and mind with his lyrics -- deliciously surprising at times and always crafted to complement the mood he creates with his melodies. In an era of repetitive, thoughtless ramblings, his words tell a story and (dare I mention it) offer up something of value to ponder and relish.