“Fire” is a funk song with a definite 70’s sound. In fact, I was almost positive the song was a cover of an old song, but it was actually written by Dave Cobb and Brent Roam. Cobb co-wrote six of the twelve songs on the album with Johns, as well as two other songs with Roam.
Among the other highlights, a personal favorite of mine is “Turn To You,” the song that closes the album. The song is very heartfelt and touching in its lyrics. It's about having that one person who is always there for you, and is beautifully sung by Johns.
“It’s Too Late” and “This Is Goodbye” are two sad blues ballads that Johns puts his all into vocally. “Heart On My Sleeve” is a Paul McCartney-esque piano based ballad that has a very nice and pleasant sound. The biggest surprise is Johns’ cover of the Bee Gees hit “Love Somebody.” The song is arranged quite differently and I didn’t recognize it until the chorus. Johns’ arrangement leans more toward an Otis Redding soul style than disco. The sound works quite well for the song.
“Hold Back My Heart” and “Heart Is Weak” (written by Diane Warren) are solid tracks, though I don’t find them as distinctive as some of the other tracks on the album. Both songs make good album tracks and Johns’ singing is particularly effective on “Heart Is Weak.” The title track has a cool little groove that is fun to listen to.
Hold Back My Heart is a must for anyone who is a fan of Johns, or simply liked him on Idol. Hopefully the high quality of the songwriting, musicianship and vocals will help the album catch on with fans of soul, r&b and bluesy pop.
Article comments
1 - Allison
Great review, Sherry!
2 - kbr
Fantastic review! I can't wait to hear the whole album next week when it is released!
3 - Pamela
Thanks for the review, Sherry! Michael is so incredibly talented, and I am looking forward to this album like you wouldn't believe.
4 - Terry
Very Nice Review..couldn't agree with you more. Can't wait to get Michael's CD!
5 - Tara
Excellent review Sherry, he is truly talented artist and I can't wait for his album to be released. The little snippets we hear are such teasers!
6 - Jessica
What an awesome review Sherry! I can not wait to get the album in my hands, his voice is unique and flawless.
7 - Queenie
Nice review! Thank you for writing it, from one of those "diehard" Michael Johns fans! Can't wait to buy the cd!
8 - aleli
Thanks for the good review! It made me more excited for MJ's album!
9 - Sharon
I am anxiously waiting for Tuesday! The preview clips I've heard have left me wanting more. His vocals sound amazing!
10 - Kathleen
Finally, Fool's Gold gets a mention, I love love that song by Michael.
11 - Tony
I purchased Heart On My Sleeve right when it came out on iTunes and just bought the entire album today. I can't tell you how great the whole collection really is. Every single song is heartfelt, beautiful, and very well put together. I really hope Michael Johns gets some recognition for this album - he deserves the chance to keep making records for years to come.