Welcome to the EvO:R Independent CD Reviews Section.
I would like to take a few minutes to introduce ourselves to everyone. The EvO:R review section features reviews from various independent musicians that submit material for our consideration.

I wanted to let you know a little about our review teams collective thoughts on music. It's important to let the people that we review know how we think of their music and how we listened to their creations.

First of all, we strongly believe that if your music stinks then the world should know about it! After all, you have the nerve to charge as much for your stuff as the majors do so it better be pretty damn good. If your material is good, we'll be glad to tell the world. I We will hold nothing back! That is a promise.
The EvO:R CD Review Team

This is Crowne’s latest release “Songs of Innocence and Experience” After doing some research this Miami native reminds me of Danny Elfman (Oingo Boingo). Over the years Crowne has opened for superstars like The Mavericks, composed and produced numerous radio jingles, theatrical music and television themes for major networks including Fox, PBS and Univision. He has even produced albums for up and coming artists. Definitely someone to keep an eye on locally.

J.J. Crowne has done an amazing job carving out a unique niche for himself within his amazing songwriting craft and a sincere approach. Right from the start Crowne’s emotional impact and world class songwriting cannot be called into question. The opening track: “Only Time” is an amazing prelude of sorts that will gently lead you by the hand down a timeless musical journey that I would describe as emotionally invigorating. The whole CD is wonderfully simple yet wonderfully complex at the same time. It reminds me a little of John Mayer & maybe even Ben Taylor but has quality reminiscent of some of the musical legends of the 70’s. Cat Stevens, Harry Chapin, Jim Croce, Gordon Lightfoot, America come to mind. There are some fantastic & melancholy moments on display here which gives this CD a very accessible feel emotionally. What I like most - this CD does not attempt to hide the truth in any way, shape, or form, rather it tells it with bold honesty and a genuine conviction. It also has deep musical depth and puts the production genius of Crowne front and center. Favorite song is “Finally Your Turn.” The vocal emotions are the ultimate report card fro me when I evaluate music and this artist tells the truth – the good, bad and the ugly of it all.

Conclusion

One small recommendation – On future works Crowne should not be afraid to take a few risks here and there, especially at the end of some of your songs where a strong emotional finale presents itself. Really seal the deal and drive the passion of the song home vocally. When done right it will no doubt transform a good song into a legendary one. Just listen to the ending of “Don’t think I Don’t Think About It” by Daruis Rucker and you will see exactly what I am talking about.

Rating:

None given

Rory Richardson...EvO:R Reviewer.

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About the Editor:
Cyrus Rhodes is also President of Katavi Arts kataviarts.com a record label based out of Seattle, WA. He also plays guitar for local rock band Seven Against Thebes, Over the years Rhodes has been a guitarist in a touring band, band manager, booking agent, A&R representative, talent buyer, executive producer and most recently a syndicated music critic. His reviews have been posted on USA TODAY and HEADLINE NEWS. In 2009 he launched INDIE MUSIC DIGEST. IMD is dedicated the helping Independent Artists and only accepts material from unsigned bands.

 Cyrus's Record Label kataviarts.com

 Cyrus's band Seven Against Thebes www.7at.net

 Drum Dynasty www.drumdynasty.com

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