Album Review – Shawn Jones

Struggle Makes You Stronger
By Pam Baumgardner

Struggle Makes You Stronger

Struggle Makes You Stronger

I’ve been going out and catching Shawn Jones’ shows for a few years now.  To be honest, I get a little antsy when he’s out on the road touring.  I don’t want to begrudge others from enjoying his shows and becoming fans,  but I love that he’s been calling Ventura home and that we get him more often than others around the world.

That being said, obviously, I love Shawn Jones.  His music just does something to the inner workings of my body and soul.  It’s a physical thing, and a spiritual thing and he does it quite effortlessly.

Having Waylon Jennings as a early mentor puts you on the right path for originality; Shawn learned this lesson well.  Only the truest blissful sounds this man makes has to be born from within and he really holds true on his latest “Struggle Makes You Stronger.”

Original tunes through and through, Shawn  really shines on his fifth release which was produced by Shawn Jones, Jeff Silbar and Joe Baugh at Brotheryn Studios in Ojai, CA.  I’d be lying if I said I didn’t have favorites, but I can’t help myself!  What a great line in the opening track, “Life is for the Living,” “I went out to see an old friend, laid to rest last Saturday.”  The man just has a way with words, and his music is so infectious you’ll find yourself grooving and learning the lyrics and singing right along with Shawn by the second time through.

Shawn at Yolies

Shawn at Yolies August 24, 2013

The title track, “Struggle Makes you Stronger,” is another favorite as is “She Don’t know (’bout her own Mojo),” which is funky, down and dirty; Shawn has some serious fun on that one.  “Day with Rain” soothes the soul, where “Runnin’ Water” raises you up and makes you want to take on the world.

Blues, Rock, Americana, Country…it’s Shawn Jones playing what inspires him…and it inspires me.

And one more thing…Shawn has got the sexiest voice hands down.  You can quote me on that one.

Get yourself some Shawn Jones, “Struggle Makes You Stronger.”

www.ShawnJonesMusic.com
www.Facebook.com/ShawnJonesMusic
Links to buy online:
http://www.shawnjonesmusic.com/store/
Link to see video “Life is for the Living”:
Life is for the Living