Johnny Burke is a tough nut to crack. The new record Distance and Fortune is a little all over the map. There are loud rockers like the first track “Broke Again” that remind me of the louder Big Star screamers. And then there are tracks like “Little Girl of the World” which has a feel both musically and lyrically like something a young Buddy Holly might have written and performed. There’s also a song that Johnny Burke co-wrote with Hayes Carll called “Don’t Let Me Fall” that is slow and sedate with lyrics that explore the theme of failing at art (and life).
I’m a little torn personally but I’m guessing my readers will like this dichotomy and will appreciate the fervor and energy on display here on Johnny Burke’s debut full length. You can stream the whole thing at Johnny’s homepage and pre-order this Feb 22 release over at Lonestar Music.
