Donavon Frankenreitter - Donavon Frankenreitter

If it’s possible to precisely judge a book by its cover, Mr. Frankenreiter sounds like he should be playing the accordion in a polka band. But we all know that first impressions can be misleading… …drum roll please! Donovan Frankenreiter is Jack Johnson, and Jack Johnson is Donovan Frankenreiter. But not like Garth Brooks is Chris Gaines and Chris Gaines is Garth Brooks. The uncanny similarities between the two artists rest in their happy-go-lucky acoustic guitar music, surfing lifestyle, and shared record label (Brushfire). At least Jack Johnson got the cooler name of the two. Donovan Frankenreiter’s self titled debut is a niche album that should please Jack Johnson devotees (i.e. Sorority Chicks). Here’s the business ideology: Consistent application of acoustic guitar, slow-tempo percussion, mellow drums, and sappy lyrics about love, butterflies, and sunshine will eradicate hatred and stimulate universal love. This may be a good idea for the times in which we live, but musically it won’t withhold the test of time. In fact, thirty minutes is way too long. If you’ve heard the track “Free” on the radio, then you’ve heard the entire album. [www.donovanf.com]