CD Review: Jack Johnson, "In Between Dreams" (Brush Fire Records)
"In Between Dreams" is another winning batch of bubbly James Taylor-meets-Dave Matthews feel-good songs that should only increase his popularity with college crowds.
Whether or not it's true that "there's nothing new under the sun," Johnson certainly isn't looking. This third album coasts along on the exact same waves that made "Brushfire Fairytales" and "On and On" such peaceful, easy-feeling joys. The equation remains unchanged: Johnson's warming voice, a softly strummed acoustic guitar and restrained rhythm work by drummer Adam Topol and bassist Merlo Podlewski.
Johnson is still wooing the ladies with his campfire-style crooning on the cuddly "Do You Remember" and "Better Together," which might be his most romantic song to date. He is at his most effective when he is simply prolonging an everyday moment, pleading with a lover to stay inside on a rainy day for "Banana Pancakes" or simply trying to coax his lady into slumber on "No Other Way."
This tender, highly accessible set won't impress the hipsters down at the local indie-record store--really, that's what we have Guided by Voices CDs for. It could, however, help you find a date at the next frat party.
Outside Lands fest firms up schedule [April 2008]
Mariah Carey's new album shoots to No. 1 [April 2008]
Prince joins Coachella roster [April 2008]
Day26 evicts Danity Kane from No. 1 slot [April 2008]
Danity Kane's 'Dollhouse' debuts at No. 1 [March 2008]


Hot Chip electro-fies America once more
3 Doors Down, Staind, Hinder book more shows
Tina Turner expands comeback tour
Weekend Ticketing: Madonna, Coldplay, Tina Turner, American Idols Live, Brad Paisley
The Raconteurs make 'Lonely' tour longer
Reba McEntire, Kelly Clarkson together again
Kate Voegele's music career blossoms
Bow Wow headlines summer outing
Joe Bonamassa launches extensive tour
The Hold Steady firms up summer trek
Cute Is What We Aim For takes aim at summer trek


Etta James, Gov't Mule, John Hiatt Play Telluride
Bonnaroo Adds New Orleans Venue
Syesha Mercado Looks To Life After "Idol"
LiveDaily Weekend: Green Day, Madonna, Neil Diamond and more
LiveDaily Song of the Day: Joan As Police Woman - "To Be Loved"
Matisyahu And Chiodos Join Warped Tour
Dolly Parton Outraged Over Howard Stern Segment
Shania Twain, "Mutt" Lange Separate
LiveDaily News Break, May 15: Ozzfest, Bon Jovi, Neil Diamond and more
LiveDaily Song of the Day: Mates of State - "My Only Offer"

