The Man Behind the Mask
author: Hillary Manning
This album is truly great. The first time I heard John Hoskinson sing was at a college party on the eve of the '90s. I will never forget hearing such amazing talent at what amounted to a beer bash. I have followed his work ever since. He played with a band, Ferocious Daisies, for several years and now has two solo CDs. This latest one, Pancho Fantastico, is sublime. Same great voice, new-and-improved songs. Listen and enjoy!
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Pancho Fantastico is magnifico!
author: Lady Hooligan Kat
I love this cd; it'’s pure pop/rock magic! Every song is unique, but they all have John’'s sweet voice singing lovely melodies and smart lyrics. My ABSOLUTE FAVORITE song on the cd is the soaring and retro “"Just Think It Over"”. I can listen to it non-stop, and it'’s definitely on my list for the Top Ten songs of 2007!
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PANCO FANTASTICO - MUCHO FANTASTIC !
author: chris welch
John Hoskinson's latest release is a power pop gem. Full of great melodies, smart lyrics and rich, layered harmonies - he sounds uncannily like Neil Finn on the Crowded House like 'Guaranteed' and pulls off an impressive falsetto on the striking 'Think It Over'.
Hoskinson's calling card is that voice. He can really sing.
The poppy 'Miss Rejection' is an uptempo sunny strummer, 'She Makes Me Yawn' a grin inducing swipe at an ex and 'Please Stay Off My Side' a smart Squeeze like rocker. He even pulls off pastiche with 'Hard To Say' which echo's McCartney's more whimsical moments from the White Album.
Only the overly earnest 'Evolve' grates a little and there is maybe one ballad too many, but overall Mr Hoskinson has done himself proud with a collection of songs that pop/rock lovers in the UK should take the time to hunt down.
Highly Recommended.
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author: the vinyl hours
John Hoskinson is a true poet. His lyrics are excellent. The song arrangements are pure genious, from incredible stripped down acoustic songs, "We Can Never Be Friends" to full-on orchestra-style arrangements, "I am Not Surprised." These twisted pop songs, like "Creepy" will have you wondering, "Why can't more people write great love songs like this one?" If you can't tell your lover how creepy they are, who can you tell? If you're laughing, you will get the twisted humor that John Hoskinson shares with his listeners. He has a soft side too, try "Only One By Your Side." These songs can take you from a lonely living room, to a sunny, bike ride in paris. Can't wait for the next cd from John Hoskinson!
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