What do you get when an award-winning journalist/lyricist and versatile punk-rocker join forces? You get the dynamic duo of Bryan Russo and Ryan Abbott tearing up the underground Indie scene! Fresh off the breakout, debut release of ‘In The Key of WTF!’, Journos is back with a vengeance with ‘The Burning Question’. Journos is continuing the momentum by delivering thought-provoking AND party-style jams.
This new album contains 11 songs and each one has its own unique story. Journos can pick up the pace and slow things down at the drop of a hat. When it comes to ‘The Burning Question’, the answer is to know how to have a good time and throw caution to the wind while also being aware of your audible surroundings. That would sum up Journos in a broader nutshell as this group attempts to tackle ‘The Burning Question’ note by note.
Right from the start on the title track, “The Burning Question”, an infectious groove and catchy hook wraps around you. There is a distinct rawness to the texture of “The Burning Question” that is enticing to hear and I even picked up on an Elvis Costello influence. Prepare for a very cool flow and musical direction on “Nowhere To Hyde” where Journos will get you shakin’ & movin’ like there is no tomorrow. A fan-friendly tone will attract a wide audience on “Exception To The Rule” where the listener will also enjoy a pleasing melody. Next, just let loose and have a blast on “Bootleggers Ball” that makes for one jumpin’ & jivin’ joint. On track five, “Full Salinger”, Journos takes a more serious approach with rock-solid material that is musically rich and speaks volumes lyrically. I detect a punk rhythm and tempo on “Noble Cause”, and this really perks me up and gets me pumped. Journos is in total control from the jump with memorable lines like “Love is still the only Noble Cause”. Journos keeps you guessing from a vocal and musical standpoint on “Be Somebody” where a sense of wonder grabs your attention. There is a nice, little surprise on “Be Somebody” where you get a small taste of the guitar chorus line from “Day Tripper” by The Beatles. Get ready to drink it all in and consume “Brand New Drunk” responsibly. “Brand New Drunk” stumbles into your ears and it’s safe to say that this energetic number is full-bodied and heavy on taste & flavor. Track nine, “Don’t Mind Me (I’m Falling Apart)”, offers an easy-breezy feel and flavorful punch of mojo that makes for a wonderful performance overall. Journos supplies a mellow sensation and more of a somber-like tone on “Pieces of Heart”. Journos is reeling you in with waves of emotion on “Pieces of Heart” and this song is beautifully done with nice harmonies. The dynamic duo is going out with a bang on “Unapologetically Yours” where you’ll just want to throw up your hands, twist, shout and rock out to the sweet sounds of Journos.
Combining elements of indie americana, blues and rock, this album is steady ear candy for listeners. ‘The Burning Question’ is set to be released in 2025 on Bob the Organism Records and heavy anticipation for this record. Take a ride on the Journos side and try to figure out what ‘The Burning Question’ is…if you dare!
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By Jimmy Rae
