Sun King Rising’s “Signs & Wonders” LP is a compelling blend of southern rock, soul, and blues that showcases John Blangero’s talent as a singer, songwriter, and pianist. Released at the end of 2022, on PeacockSunrise Records, this brilliant second album follows the success of his debut album, “Delta Tales.”
Blangero, hailing from Port Isabel, Texas, draws inspiration from his southern roots and family culture, infusing his music with a rich tapestry of storytelling. His songs are reminiscent of the literary genius of William Faulkner, the bluesy brilliance of George Gershwin, the soulful melodies of Elton John, and the funky rhythms of Muscle Shoals.
“Signs & Wonders” is a collection of southern noir stories set to music, each track a vivid portrayal of colorful characters and tales of sin, redemption, and love. Blangero’s lyrics are poignant and evocative, painting a picture of a world filled with intrigue and mystery.
One of the highlights of the album is the first single, “No. 6 Magnolia Avenue,” just one of the tracks that has helped the collection reach an impressive 800K Spotify streams. Each track showcases Blangero’s ability to seamlessly blend different musical styles into a cohesive and captivating sound.
Backing Blangero’s evocative vocals and storytelling are a group of talented musicians who contribute to the album’s rich sound. George Perilli’s drums provide a steady backbone to most tracks, while Roger Humphreys takes the helm on track 4, “Buried in the blues Again.” George Elliott’s bass guitar adds depth and groove, complementing the intricate guitar work of Willie Ross and Steve Schuffert. Additionally, Ace Acker’s acoustic guitar and Fred Delu’s electric piano add layers of texture to the album’s sound.
“One More Story to Tell” is a standout track on Sun King Rising’s “Signs & Wonders” LP, offering a captivating blend of southern rock, country, and soul that is characteristic of the band’s signature sound. The song tells the story of a musician who uses his lyrical and melodic prowess to captivate his audience and achieve his goals.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the protagonist’s actions and intentions, portraying him as a charming and manipulative figure who uses his talents to win over women and achieve his desires. Lines like “Metaphor and rhythm make you fair weak in the knees / Promises and miracles and mudflat symphonies” highlight the protagonist’s skill in using language and music to enchant those around him.
Musically, “One More Story to Tell” features a dynamic arrangement that showcases the band’s musical prowess. The blend of guitars, drums, and horns creates a rich and textured sound that perfectly complements the narrative of the song.
The background vocal arrangements by Stevee Wellons and Ace Acker add a soulful dimension to the tracks, with backing singers including Joy Brown, Bernice Wilkerson, and Pete Hewlett, among others. Ralph Guzzi’s horn arrangements, along with Eric Defade and Kevin McManus, provide a brass-infused flair to several tracks, with Kenny Blake’s saxophone shining on track 4.
“Signs & Wonders” was expertly engineered by David Granati at Maplewood Studio, Ambridge, PA, and mixed and mastered by Brian Foraker. The album’s production, helmed by Ace Acker, brings together all these elements into a cohesive whole.
Clint English’s art direction and design round out the album, providing a visual aesthetic that complements the music’s depth and storytelling. Overall, “Signs & Wonders” is a testament to the collaborative effort of these talented musicians, creating a musical experience that is both captivating and deeply nuanced. Blangero’s storytelling and musical prowess shine through on every track, making this album a must-listen for fans of southern rock, soul, and blues music.
Here is a tracklist for Sun King Rising’s “Signs & Wonders” LP:
- Bitter Waters Sweetened – 04:20
- No. 6 Magnolia Avenue – 04:11
- Lanterns On The Levee – 03:58
- Buried In The Blues Again – 03:56
- Jubal Takes A Wife – 04:29
- She Was A Blonde – 04:56
- One More Story To Tell – 03:24
- Low Wine And Cruel Ruin – 04:39
- Anchorless – 05:48
- Alabama Nocturne – 03:01
Published by: Nelly Chavez
