Rock and roll is dynamic and reflective of our culture. No other subgenre is as eclectic as Americana, which combines the efforts of the likes of folk, blues, country and other musical flavors evocative of our way of life. John Salaway takes the genre to the limit in his latest release, Americana Dreams. The title alone is enough to think you’re prepared for what lies within the album but this release is packed with so much heart, soul, and inspiration that its unique identity is undeniable. All 10 tracks bring something to love with their own unique qualities which shows off every facet of this collaborative effort. The many influences packed within these 10 tracks is palpable and will take you on a wild ride through the Americana aesthetic.
From the top, “It Feels Great†offers a bouncy, rambling beat that is head-bobbing and keeps the track mellow while the upbeat vocals explode and create a groove you can’t help but move your body to. The bass is jumpy and carries the bouncy aesthetic of the track while the guitar and precise cymbal crashes give it a soft, dreamy quality. The song has a very carefree quality to it, that makes it an easy listen that leaves a smile on your face. “It’s All In Your Mind†is another stand-out track, solidifying the dreamy aesthetic of the album. Its heartfelt message is one that is full of emotion, that doesn’t change the pace but offers a warm quality in its soft vocals and instrumentals. Lines such as “I wish that I could make you see how beautiful you are to me†nail the message and heavy, heartfelt aesthetic of the track.
Americana Dreams keeps its sunny and dreamy aesthetic alive throughout the album, but tracks such as “A Little Bit Broken†keep things fresh. The western aesthetic backed by the strong percussion demands attention and doesn’t let you go. The bass groove that backs it up only lends to its impact, which gives the track a pulse that you can feel in the back of your head every time it hits. The reverb-laced vocals give the track the signature dreamy aesthetic that matches the tone of the rest of the album, but the instrumental gives it a personality all it’s own. By the end of it, you’ll be singin’ along, “I’m a little bit broken, but I’ll pull myself together.†“You Better Believe†is another track that showcases the dynamic nature of the album, which places female vocalist Kelsey Steele front and center. The upbeat intro gets you moving but the lyrics explode onto the scene and sweep you off your feet. The explosive guitar solo is short, but leaves a lasting impression as it wails throughout the rest of the track. The power of female vocalist Kelsey Steele is on full display here, which gives this track a great flavor and is the perfect way to shake up the album and keep it fresh.
Americana Dreams is exactly what it says on the cover. It is an inspired, dreamy ride that never gets stale. Every track warrants a listen and the fantastic musical surprises hidden within nearly every one will have you listening to each more than once. The collaborative efforts add an undeniable dash of flavor to the album as a whole, offering a smile-inducing experience throughout. There is so much to love in Americana Dreams, whether it be the dynamic instrumentals, the powerful and unique vocals, or the limitless amount of inspiration that can be felt in each collaborative effort here, the entire ride is enjoyable from start to finish. When you get a chance, make some room on your playlist and give this album a listen. You won’t regret it.
Leave a Reply