At the age of 19, Jonny Lang didn’t have
much to prove. He already had two platinum albums under his belt and a
Grammy nomination but that didn’t stop Jonny from trying to top himself
when it came time to come up with his third album.
Now at the age of 22, Lang is ready for
the world to hear the next chapter in his musical story, an album by the
name of “Long Time Coming”. Lang isn’t looking back, only forward and is
pleased with his latest offering, "I'm the happiest I've ever been, and
I've just finished recording an album I couldn't be happier with."
The title of the disc is a bit of tongue
in cheek for those who waited patiently for the album’s release. And it
was bit of a wait this time around for Lang fans; four years to be exact!
But Lang had a vision for his new album and he wanted it to honestly reflect
who he is. With that in mind, he penned or co-wrote all but one track on
the CD and also worked as co-producer along side Marti Fredrickson (Ozzy
Osbourne, Aerosmith, Faith Hill).
Their combined effort seemed to pay off
and once fans hear the end result they will know their wait was not in
vain. The bluesy notes just flow out of the speakers. Vocally, Lang captures
a bit of Rod Stewart without the rasp. In fact, it is Lang’s velvet throated
delivery that carries the day. He projects real power when it is needed
but he also packs his song with genuine raw emotion even at the slower
moments.
The CD can be a little slick production-wise
at points but that is easily overlooked when contrasted against the rockin’
moments. Blues play a part in the music but Lang doesn’t put all his eggs
in one basic. The blues are definitely heard but they play the role as
more of a basic framework in which Lang builds from.
That diversity is evident throughout the
CD, Lang mixes it up from track to track and it’s virtually impossible
to feel any redundancy when listing to this album. He brings the funk with
the track “Give What You Give”, perhaps one of the best songs featured
here. He opens the album with the rockin’ blues infused “Give Me Up Again”.
The second track “Red Light” slows the pace and seems a little il’ placed
so early in the disc during the first few bars but the song quickly redeems
itself and Lang’s smooth vocal delivery save the day.
Then there is acoustically led “One I Got”,
which sounds a little like Michael Bolton might sounds if he had more cohunes.
It’s less rockin’ than some of the other tracks because the guitars are
turned down but the song is delivered with a rapid fire pace and Lang just
wraps his voice around the words. It works for well for him but very few
could pull it off convincingly without sounding too “adult contemporary”.
The next track “Touch” unfortunately does
fall into the AC trap and comes across as a Michael Bolton song. “Beautiful
One” suppers a similar fate although there are a lot of positive moments
and after a few spins it grows on you. The big complaint is the drums sound
too artificial but the chorus is as smooth as you can get and the lead
guitars add a nice texture to the song.
“If We Try” brings the funk again and helps
Lang redeems himself from the Bolton’esq moments that proceeded this one.
The soul is subtler, this isn’t “Brick House” but it really showcases Lang’s
vocals.
That’s only half the disc and Lang has
already proved himself. But it’s the next track that really stands out.
A little number called “Goodbye Letter”, a emotional ballad that starts
out with a bit of a Cat Stevens feel but then kicks into power mode.
The rest of the album is an exploration
on the edge of the blues and includes some excellent tracks like haunting
“Save Yourself” and the smooth bluesy “To Love Again” which seems destined
for greatness on the Hot AC charts and features some pretty solid guitar
work.
All in all, four years was a long time
to wait for new material, especially for an artist so young, but Jonny
Lang fans should end up more than pleased with the final product. Lang
may not be for everyone, especially if you like the your guitars distorted
and your vocals delivered with more of a scream but Lang helps resurrect
the almost forgotten art form of contemporary rock with blues overtones.
A very worthy effort from a very worthy artist. It’s hard to imagine what
he’ll come up with in the years to come but Lang is young enough to give
us decades of music in the years to come and if he keeps building upon
the same foundation, that music will be pretty solid.
CD Info
Jonny
Lang – Long Time Coming
Label: Universal
Rating:
Tracks: Give Me Up Again
Red Light
Get What You Give
One I Got, The
Touch
Beautiful One
If We Try
Goodbye Letter
Save Yourself
To Love Again
Happiness And Misery
Hide Your Love
Dying To Live
Long Time Coming
Livin' For The City
Posted by Audrey:
I am a die hard rock fan and maybe that's why I had never heard of Jonny Lang before. A friend told me that I had to listen to this one song, Missing your Love, off of the juke box. I immediatly fell in love with this man's music. I finally got to see him in concert October 27 in Mobile, AL and was blown away! My son tells me that I am the only person he knows that can go from Disturbed to Jonny Lang and listen to nothing but. My only disappointment with the concert was that when Jonny was introducing his band and where they are from, he didn't say that he was from "our" home state of North Dakota. Love ya Jonny. Can't wait until you come back down south again.
Posted by Missy:
Its me again my dad lied and i got the tickets to see Jonny on christmas my show was on Jan 22 2005 and it was... well there hasnt been a word made et that can describe how good it was, he is so much better live than on his CDs now im just waiting till the next time he comes to town!
Posted by Tbug:
If anyone asked me at any given point what cd was in my cd player at that moment it would always be jonny lang! There isn't a song that I don't jam to. I've seen him live once and was entranced the entire time. Lots of people including my friends don't even know who he is...what a shame! Don't worry, I'm working on it! Jonny Lang truly is a gift.
Posted by Missy:
Hi I'm a really young Jonny fan and all my friends have no idea who he is,but I've converted a few. I really wanted concert tickets and the one time I could see him there was a age limit. I was upset but I still Love his music. He's Awesome!
Posted by Missy:
Hi I'm a really young jonny fan and wanted concert tickets but the one time i could see him there was a age limit. Iwas upset but I still Love his music
Posted by Lindsey:
Ive never been to any of his concerts but ive heard his fist albums and i fell in love when i listened to it. my dad had the cds and i would borrow them from him all the time. his voice and ability to play guitar is amazing. hes truley a talented star.
Posted by Ali:
Only those who have seen Jonny Lang live in concert know how incredible he is. If you see him live, I promise...he will blow your mind! Only true musicians can appreciate his talent.
Posted by Melissa:
I've been going to see Jon for almost 10 years and as he grows as a musician he keeps on impressing me with his ability to take risks and deliver everytime.
Posted by Pegwana:
I've never heard Jonny Lang sing anything I didn't like. I saw him in Nashville several years ago with Sting and fell in love. I had front row center tickets to see him again in 2003 but had to sell the tix because I won an award at work and had to attend a black tie function. Now I'm traveling 475 miles to see him in September and I can't wait!!! I know it will be worth the time and money. He's the best!!!
Posted by Stephanie:
WOW, Jonny's a hottie. He couldn't be a better musicial either. My Mom sings blues so I've grown up with it and hes a genuine truly wonderful artist..
Posted by Granny G:
I have been a fan of Jonny since Lie to Me. I have always admired and appreciated his talent. I just saw him 6/11/04 in Virginia for his Long Time Coming Tour. Nothing and I mean nothing compares to seeing Jonny live. He was frigging fantastic! If you ever have the opportunity to see him live, I suggest you take it. Only then will you be able to truely appreciate the awesome talent of this remarkable young man. BTW I'm a 48 yo grandmother who loves rockin', rhythm and blues! Jonny fits the bill!
Posted by Met7Az:
yeah Johnny's been around awhile and is pretty good, but if you really want to see a wiz kid on a gutair go check out a local kid here in Arizona named Nick Sterling. He's 213 now but has been playing since he was 7 years old!! Check out this kids talent at http://www.nicksterling.com and hear him play. His Randy Rhodes solo is unbelieveable! I seen this kid play at age 9 and was floored watching him do Eddie Van Halens solos to a " T " .
Posted by molly:
Jonny is so awesome and I cannot believe that he is not the biggest hit around! It almost makes me mad that so many people do not even know who he is but I know and I also how awesome an artist he is and I cannot wait to hear him for the rest of my life. I LOVE YOU JONNY!!!! KEEP ROCKIN' US!!!
Posted by Webs:
At first I thought that the cd was a downer, but after listening to it i realized that no matter what style of music he plays he still has the gift. I don't care what anyone says, he is still awesome. From the guitar solos to the vocals, he is the reason I got into the blues. I will be seeing him in concert May 7th. I also saw him in Madison last November.
Posted by sara (from germany):
jonny lang´s songs are the best i´ve ever listened to!! his voice is awesome and though his new cd isn´t as "bluesy" as the old ones i still like it.i haven´t seen jonny lang in concert yet but i´d love to.jonny, please come to germany!!!
Posted by jma:
I love the new cd and even went and meet him at one of his show,s in jersey,man he rocks,and why isnt any of the cd on the radio yet,save your self should be on the radio,everyone i let listen to it love,s it,even my hard rock buddy,s,what give,s
Posted by tkween:
I LOVE Jonny Lang's music. As a young musician, he inspires me to keep pushing and not be afraid to think outside the box. I love this article. I only have one complaint: I disagree with the comment about "red light." I found the lyrics to be very inspirtational. In fact, I think he should remix it into a more soulful R&B type ballad. The lyrics are so touching, and inspirtational, that I wish it were tastefully remixed to reach a broader audience.
Posted by scdiva:
Amazing, and wonderful! Jonny is our favorite artist right now. He sings and plays from the heart with passion and meaning. His music has changed somewhat but it should. He's growing in many ways but it is all forward growth. His love of the Lord shows through and this makes me smile. May God continue to bless you Jonny, we love you and your talent.
Posted by naika:
jonny is a breathe of fresh air to my lungs. as a music lover its like I was gasping for a touch of music to make me remember how it was, although im young i know how it feels when you hear someone who was born to be great,and thats jonny...point blank period.
Posted by Seanie:
Jonny Lang is a stud and his guitar solos in about every song blow my mind. Thanks for makin music Jonny!
Posted by cj :
jonny is awesome! his new cd is kickin! yes the edge is gone, but in its place is a nice mixture of the life and times of jonny lang! which is kewl as hell! id' pay to see him in concert with his new stuff anyday! keep up the good work jonny! :)
Posted by Hannah:
Jonny Lang's new CD. "Long Time Coming," has changed my life. When I first listened to it, I cried. The song "Save Yourself," perfectly described me and my life situations. I just love him so much and I am eternally grateful for him inspiring me so much.
Posted by jazzy:
Jonny Lang is awesome...that's all that needs to be said!!
Posted by Scott:
I've seen Jonny Lang in concert twice. A few years ago at the House of Blues in Orlando and again last month at the Florida Theater in Jacksonville. The first concert was a great mix of rock & blues, the concert last month was a strange mix of rock & love songs with more singing than guitar playing from Jonny. The next day I bought the "Long Time Coming" CD. I hate it! The edge is gone, the blues are gone, the amazing guitar work is gone. In it's place is a collection of crappy, mellow love songs that dozens of other artists could write and perform. Jonn Lang used to be in a class by himself. Now he's lost in the classroom. Maybe with the the J.C. thing, the marriage, the money & fame, he just ain't blue no more. Too bad for us.
Posted by Shad:
I think it's great to see a young artist that keeps the creative spirit with the blues. He's great! I wish more young artists will listen to his music and embrace this. I'm 48 years old and I fel young again!
Posted by Susan:
I think Jonny Lang is a perfect mixture of old blues and new blues. I think he has one of the greatest blues voices.
Posted by funky matt:
Jonny Lang Rocks!! I have read all of the comments and have to agree with most of the people that Jonny Lang is the greatest musician i've ever heard. My favorite album is wander this world, but people shouldn't judge his new album long time coming, it's not bad it's just different, it really shows how talented he really is by the variety of music he can sing.
Posted by Ursula:
I am sooo excited. I will be attending just one of many Jonny's concerts on March 6, 2004. In Houston for the first time ever, and I am just so thrilled! I can't wait to see him perform LIVE!!! AAHHH!!
Posted by Aubreytelecast1@aol.com:
I just seen jonny for the 4th time, He was great, I wish he would make a new album with just blue's I understand why he wants to hit the top 40, To make $ But we all need a blue's album from jonny,
Posted by Erica:
Hey does anyone have the set list for the Hartford, Ct Webster Theater show? I was there too, and his insane guitar and unbelieveable voice made me blank on the set list. Thanks.
Posted by Ravenn:
What a soulful young man!!! Been listen to him over the years and I'm happy the Gods created such a talented man with the best music i've heard in years.
Posted by Laura B:
I saw Jonny last night at the Webster Theater in Hartford and he was absolutely mindblowing. Watching the intensity and emotion coming from this adorable baby faced man was unbelieveable. I love and have listened to his music for years, but finally seeing him live brought my appreciation of his talents to an even greater level. He's insane on the guitar and his voice is like gold. He makes you really "feel" every word he sings and every note he plays. It was one of the best shows I have ever seen and I can't wait to see him again!
Posted by Carkmonsta:
Saw Jonny again last night in Portland and although it was a differently paced show, he certainly did not let us down again. He's a real gem. I can only hope that I'll be able to see him many, many more times over the next few years.
Posted by Carkmonsta:
Jon Landau once wrote in the 70's of an artist that he called the "Future of Rock and Roll" and his name was Bruce Springsteen. In the fall I saw Jonny and came away speechless. It was one of the most incredible shows I'd ever seen(And that is after seeing Bruce at least 50 times). I walked out of the venue with thinking I may have had the same feelings that Landau had in Cambridge that night many years ago!
Posted by Carkmonsta:
Jon Landau once wrote in the 70's of an artist that he called the "Future of Rock and Roll" and his name was Bruce Springsteen. In the fall I saw Jonny and came away speechless. It was one of the most incredible shows I'd ever seen(And that is after seeing Bruce at least 50 times). I walked out of the venue with thinking I may have had the same feelings that Landau had in Cambridge that night many years ago!
Posted by Katie:
Jonny Lang is an amazing musician. I've been a fan since he first came out and I have stuck by him since. The amount of emotion he puts into his shows just blows my mind. I am continually shocked by how awesome this guy is. I love all his albums and Long Time Coming is brilliant, though quite different from earlier stuff. I still adore it. He has touched my heart in a way that no musician ever has and I thank him for that.
Posted by lajune:
I saw jonny lang perform at the pageant in st. louis on his birthday, January 29th. I have never seen an artist put so much emotion into their music. He is by far the best.
Posted by Laura:
I'm going to see jonny for the first time in Birmingham, AL in February. I'm so excited I've loved him for years but this is the first chance I've gotten to see him. We have second row seats so I'm sure I'll really appreciate him up close.
Posted by Ursula (Big Fan):
I recently discovered Jonny Lang when I was 19. I saw him perform on Cold Pizza. And let me tell you, he literally blew me away. Not only with his voice and his great talent with his guitar. But while I was watching him, I could just see it in his eyes and facial expressions. That he loves what he is doing. And he just made me feel good...He is the first Blues Artist that touched with his lyrics. Along with Otis Redding and Wilson Pickett. Jonny is all I listen to now. I just love the fact that he isn't sitting there singing about money, nice cars and big houses. He talks about the real thing...Love and Happiness. And I truly appreciate him for that.
Posted by Lisa T.:
I think Jonny Lang is so talented. He was blessed and it's great that he uses his talent to the fullest. Love that sweet voice. L.T.
Posted by FRICKER:
I am praying Jonny makes down to San Antonio TX. I discovered him recently and I cannt get enough.
Posted by Lisa Dawn :
Hey if anybody catches a concert, look for his tour bus before or after concert. We saw him and had the chance to meet him. What a thrill! Just wanted to pass that on.
Posted by Lisa Dawn:
Just saw jonny live in spokane washinton, wow. What a concert, so much energy. his guitar playing is awesome. This is the 3rd time i've seen him, please come up to CANADA
Posted by sjm:
jonny lanf is a great talent. i'd love to see him live
Posted by Em:
What the heck is wrong with you people? I think "Long Time Coming" is Jonny's greatest album yet. Songs like Beautiful One, Touch, Dying to Live, and If We Try are the best songs I've heard in a long time! I I think The One I Got should be his next single. It's so upbeat and it puts you in such a great mood! I LOVE JONNY!
Posted by Rmuz:
he's totally awesome!!! Just wonder when he comes to europe
Posted by Lisa:
I commented a few months ago and have taken time to listen to the new release several more times -- it is growing on me, but there are still numbers that I just can't appreciate. I did go to see him live the other night and DAMN, he can still grab a crowd and hold them with ease! He played several of the new tracks and I will say, they are much more enjoyable live as he takes the liberty to add to them with his incredible guitar playing! However, without a doubt, the crowd reacted much more favorably to the old hits - ones that we old fans have come to know and love as classic Jonny. He ignites something in me when he starts playing his guitar - such a passionate display and it seems as if the chords fly from his fingers with explosive heat- my God he is HOT!
Posted by cosmo:
Para los castellanoparlantes que lean esto: Long Time Coming no está mal pero no tiene nada que ver con los CDs anteriores. Perdimos a un gran bluesman con este album (excepto algún tema en concreto). Sin embargo, insisto, globalmente no está mal. Saludos a tod@s
Posted by CJ:
Long time coming is nothing like the last two discs, which disappoints me .. But his voice still makes me melt like the time I saw him play at the Minnesota State Fair. Jonny is still an amazing guitarist and singer!! (We sure can grow 'em right here can't we?)
Posted by Logitechor:
I thought the cd was a little disappointing. i own all of his cd's and generally really appreciate Jonny's music. I have seen him live in Toronto. Great show. I suppose my disappointment lies in the lack of guitar work by himself and the band. May be the next album. I still think he is a great musican with loads of talent. Sincerely, Logitechor
Posted by Ashley:
I love Jonny so much! This album is incredible- I haven't taken it out of my cd player since i bought it. I just wish he wasn't married!
Posted by Keith:
Well....Jonny Lang has again proved that his talent is extraordinary. I read all of the posts here and realized that some Lang fans was looking forward to his blistering yet soulful guitar licks that put him on the map. I wanted the same. Very rarely do you find a musician that can capture the raw, soul-wrenching notes from a piece of wood and metal that comes to life in his hands. But I think Jonny wanted to bring his voice more into focus on this album and he nailed it!!!! He is one of the most influential artists I think we will see in the decades to come. For all of you like me, who missed the guitar licks that penetrated right to soul...don't fear. Jonny is just beginning to scratch the surface of his genius. Blues is in his soul and defines who he is. I really liked this album...and I'm thirsting for more. His guitar will speak to us again and again.
Posted by Samantha :
Your better than Jason Mraz!!!
Posted by leenie:
i heart him with a firey passion
Posted by Ash:
I just got back from a concert tonight, and oh my goodness he is soo good looking and an incredible singer. He plays the guitar like none other, he was on it the whole night and was just amazing. If he is in a city near you definitely go see it by any means necessary. I LOVE JONNY LANG!
Posted by C:
obviously this new album is completely different from the previous. But you have to realize some things. Jonny was somewhat pigeon holed in the first three albums. At a very young age he began playing with a blues cover band, and they realized that this kid can play the blues. If you look back on previous albums, jonny did not write many "blues songs" in lie to me i believe he wrote maybe two or three songs if that, in this new cd he wrote/co-wrote every song except the edgar winter and the stevie wonder song. if you listen to his lyrics you will realize that he is now feeling like himself, not only in the studio, but on stage. fans can now truly relate to his music. Also just give the album a chance for those of you who try it and hate it. Many artists change styles of music and are very successful at doing so, one to mention: Eric Clapton. he has changed from blues to his very own style of music. Give him a chance and it wont let you down.
Posted by Erin:
I'm going to Jonny Lang's concert tonight at the Adler in Downtown Davenport, Iowa and I'm really excited. He's changed so much in each album. When i first listened to it I didn't think that it would be the same as Lie To Me... but after I listened to Long Time Coming It got BETTER! i love Jonny Lang. He's a HOTTIE!
Posted by Billy B.:
Subj: New Jonny Lang CD Date: 11/30/2003 9:17:19 PM Eastern Standard Time From: Bbernstein1 To: info@vectormgmt.com Yeah, it's been a Long Time Coming all right. I can't believe that Jonny stopped writing and recording with his excellent collaborators of great R&B music from his previous 2 albums, to work with know L.A. "hitmaker" Marti Frederickson. What a classic case of career mis-management. This CD is not only over-produced but it doesn't even sound like Jonny's music. Anyone want my copy of the new CD? Regards, Billy B. Devoted (But Disappointed) Fan.
Posted by Holly:
Jonny Langs music is awsome, just listen to his voice when your having a bad day and everything is perfect. I love him!!!
Posted by heather:
i just got jonny's new cd "Long Time Coming" and i am very impressed. His voice is amazing and the music is just so melodic and soothing! It's awesome!
Posted by uit friesland (NL):
This album ROCKS!This will be my all-time favourite cd !Jonny has expanded his horizons!
Posted by yoka (real name written in dutch "joke":
Jonny lang is fantastic blues singer and we would like him to come to the Netherlands to perform. We will be there!!!! fantastic new release!
Posted by turtle:
"Long Time Coming" was definitely worth the wait. It's not like other albums, which you listen to one or two tracks. I can listen to the whole thing and thoroughly enjoy it! Jonny Lang remains one of my favorite artists. This album truly encompasses his talent.
Posted by covgirl:
I really like his new album- it shows how he has talent with several kinds of music. Oh yeah, I get to see him next week in concert!!
Posted by Michelle:
OH KNOW!:( im afraid to be disappointed. havent gotten thenew cd but to this day, im still wareing out lie to me and wanderthisworld. both have always MOVED ME like no other artist has. couldnt believe he was so young! even though...gotta buy it...cuz, its been a long time waiting!!!
Posted by Lisa:
I really did wait a "long time coming" as I am sure many of Jonny's fans did and unfortunately it wasn't worth the wait. I ran out of the store with it in hand and popped into to the car CD...not even waiting to get home to listen. Where did Jonny go??? There were moments, a few that I thought oh ya...here we go...only to hear things that reminded me of slick Weber & Rice theatrical numbers. Once in a while HE's there...but not enough!!! I will listen to it again, looking for perhaps the subtle Jonny moments that I wish were packed into all of the tracks. Come back Jonny...I have seen you live and know why I am hooked...hurry with a follow-up to ease my mind.
Posted by djack:
What a tremendous talent. I have listened to this cd 100 times already. I saw him live for the first time in Detroit a month ago. I was going to fly to LA to see him again, but it was sold out:( Hope to see him again SOON!
Posted by Lee lesel:
I think this CD has some of the best energy and talent I have heard in a long time. This is just the beginning for Jonny. My Favorite tracks are-Give Me Up Again, The One I Got, The Touch, Beautiful One ,If We Try, Goodbye Letter, Save Yourself, To Love Again, Hide Your Love.
Posted by cd:
At first I was a little disappointed with this cd, but after listening to it a few times you realize that Jonny has much talent, blues are not all the kid has. He needed to express himself and he has done a fantastic job. I will be seeing him live in LA this week. I can't wait!
Posted by lachasw:
unfortunately the looooong wait for this cd killed a lot of the enthusiastic fervor for Lang that I originally had. Sounds okay, but doesn't have that magical appeal this artist once had for me.
Posted by JB:
Just was not the same ol Jonny Lang that I was expecting...I was very disappointed.
