Description

Johanna’s second album, If I Could Fly, is a  beautiful collection of original songs about longing, loving, and learning. On this CD Johanna’s soaring voice is backed by singers and players who’ve made their marks in rock, folk, jazz, classical, world beat, electronica, and a capella music.

Stylistically, If I Could Fly is nearly impossible to classify. The opening track, Summer Lover, is an achingly beautiful pop ballad. The Only One has a powerful indie rock sound. Over You sounds like it might have come from Motown or the Brill Building songwriters of the sixties. The title track, If I Could Fly,  draws on the piano-jazz stylings of Halie Loren, who also sings the second verse. Free to Decide (Breathe) is a rhythmic multi-voice a capella chant. Already Gone has an upbeat reggae flavor. Shift in Time makes two appearances on the CD, first as a funk tune and later as an ambient electronic remix. Escalation and The Other Side of Time combine Johanna’s plaintive vocals with rich cello and violin backing. Beginning Again and Smoke in the Snow draw on the rhythms and textures of alternative folk-rock. Johanna finishes the set with the gospel sounds of Amazing Grace, done a capella, and Strong, backed by a rocking ensemble and choir.

In spite of the stylistic diversity, the CD has a cohesive flow. The unifying factors are Johanna’s rich, creative vocals, her infectuous melodies, and her provocative, heart-felt lyrics. Listening to If I Could Fly from beginning to end is like taking a personal journey with a close friend.