A folk singer's popularity is closely linked to his relevance to his times. And John Sprung's music has RELEVANCE. Starting off with the first track on this exciting new CD, "See Alice", (say it quickly three times - SEE ALICE, SEE ALICE, SEE ALICE, and you get an insight into this clever new original song, reminiscent of the style of Tom Leher. It definitely hits the male on the head. The next track, "The Gift", is a catchy ballad on the beauty of America.  Switching styles a little is  "Understand the Blues", a very poignant and sincere description of "the blues". I also enjoyed John's song, "Joshua".  It reminds me very much of the classic folksinger's recounting of a topical story for future generations. The 7th track on this CD is a tribute to past folksingers including Ledbelly, Josh White, Sonney Terry and Brownie Magee, ("The Folk Singer's Sweet Bye-and Bye").  And if you haven't heard it yet, you must listen to "Remember Me", a heartfelt tribute to those who perished in the attack on the Trade Towers on September 11, 2001, from someone who WAS there on that day.
  Aesthetically, I think the CD is great. The addition of talented accompanying instumentals and background vocals, enhance this CD, and make it a pleasure to listen to, over and over again.  Bravo John, and may there be many more!
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With \"Side Effects,\" John Sprung has once again captured the essence of our times with infectious songs ranging from deeply moving to downright witty! While songs like \"Remember Me\" and \"Joshua\" catch you off-guard with their poignant lyrics and haunting melodies, you can\'t help but laugh right along to catchy, clever tracks like \"See Alice\" and \"Social Insecurity.\" No matter how many times I play these songs, I find myself reaching for the CD over and over. It\'s feel-good music with an intelligent edge, taking a reflective look at life and having a good laugh while doing it! I\'ve been a long-time fan of John Sprung\'s music and now I\'m just waiting for the rest of the world to discover this true talent. With \"Side Effects,\" he proves that this recognition is well-deserved and long overdue. If you haven\'t heard it, go get it, and discover music that really means something!
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This is the fourth CD of John Sprung, and each one is better than the one before.  The first track, \"See Alice\", is a real hoot, and I believe could make it commercially very easily.  Nobody can hear the track \"Remember Me\" or \"The Glory of Their Times\" without being deeply moved.  I am anxiously looking forward to hearing music from his next CD!
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John\'s poignant story telling lets the listener enjoy his music without being subjected to the pretentiousness that finds it\'s way into so many avenues of today\'s music. The songs are simply stated,well crafted, to the point and serve one main purpose, to ENJOY! My favorite is \"See Alice\". After the funny business, there comes (no pun intended) the other dozen mix of everything to jerk a tear to the realization that life is indeed serious for the most part. These songs wear well and will leave you with the melodies roaming around in your head long after the cd winds down to take a much needed rest. Enjoy! Enjoy! If you find yourself playing this cd for more than four hours in a row, contact your doctor and share the music with him!Good going John!
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