John Forte - I, John

As you know if you have read just about anything I have written on this fair site, I am not really into R&B or Hip Hop. So why am I reviewing this album then? Because when I do come across something in this genre that I really enjoy, I feel that it is my duty to let you know about it. “I, John” is just different enough for me to get into, and give me something to break the rock and punk monotony that typically plagues my CD changer. On songs like “Trouble Again” Forte manages to incorporate a nice little guitar riff with his smooth vocal stylings (not to mention guest vocals from Tricky) to create a strikingly catchy track. Then we have “All the Pretty People” in which the incorporation of a piano and slow vocal delivery creates an almost Elton John-ish feel. You can’t say that too often about a song by an R&B artist. Combine these tracks with “Been There, Done That” which has a straight up rock n’ roll chorus, guitar solo, and keyboards and you have one of the best combination of styles I have heard in a while. I guess that is what draws me to this album; it is so diverse and such a great mix of different styles. It becomes clear that many different types of music have had an influence on John Forte and these influences shine through on “I, John”. All the while Forte manages to include his own unique touch on the music that seems to be rooted in his diverse musical background. Another noticeable point is the quality of the lyrics. Forte made this album in the months after his trial and conviction for drug possession, and preceding his 14-month jail sentence. As a result, we get this album full of strikingly honest lyrics about the hard times Forte is facing, as well as the positive things down the road. All in all, that makes for good music. So have you heard the new Wyclef album? It is kind of disappointing isn’t it? Well then go out and pick up the John Forte album, “I, John”. The album has a very similar feel to Wyclef’s material but offers a little more of a soul sound and a lot more diversity. I think with this release Forte has proved that he has a lot to offer the music world, and not just as a guest on his buddy’s album. I give the album a solid 4.4 manstyle points. [www.transparentmusic.com]