Album Notes

Besides the overall sound on the record - the perfect balance between the bass and drums, Burns and Greg Morrow, respectively, and the vocals (slightly up front like at a good live show) - it is the guitar work that stands out. Mr. Burns has done his homework, and he reminds one that the music was so good back in the days of Motown, Muddy Waters and Cream, because people paid their dues, learned their craft, and had to really bring it every night on the road. That, in turn, was what they brought to the studio and their records.

Joe Burns blends dynamic leads and rock rhythm riffs with a tremolo guitar on "Tokens of Treason." His slide guitar on "South Bound Slowtrain" and "Just Let Me Be" is stellar and stands tall with Mick Taylor's work on "the Stones' Let It Bleed." His guitar leads shred as much as any chops miester, but always have soul and taste. They always fit the structure of the song, placed where the vocals need a breather or where words would fail to express the needed feeling.



BIO
Joe Burns was born in Buffalo, NY and started playing guitar as a young teen. He had found his passion.

Inspired by the sounds of Jimi Hendrix, Van Halen, Robin Trower, Frank Marino, Santana, Randy Rhoads, and Stevie Ray Vaughn, Joe became focused - exerting all his time and effort into learning his craft and molding himself into what he's become today - a talented and articulate singer/songwriter...

Joe has had the opportunity to travel the world extensively (via U.S.M.C.) and in doing so, has been witness to many talented bands and guitar players. These experiences have left him with a wide background of influences as well as inspirations.

Burns was later discovered by booking agency, "Starstruck Productions", in New York. The agency set about booking him with several bands. They played throughout New York, Pennsylvania, New England, and Canada. The young musician found himself opening shows for such legends as Molly Hatchet and Kansas, playing as many as 24 shows within 30 days. Joe then made a move to Texas, where he continued performing, but with a new band in his new home. It was at this point in his career when he decided to dedicate all his time to writing and recording his own music. The "Road Runner" CD (released in 2003) is Joe's first contribution to us from his musical journey. His NEW RELEASE ( December 2004), entitled "Things Ain't What They Seem", showcases the many voices of Joe Burns and proves his songwriting talents to be quite genuine and ever-evolving.