Album Review: Jack Johnson surfs a new soundwave with In Between Dub
Photo courtesy of Brushfire Records.
Surfer, filmmaker, environmentalist and extraordinary musician, Jack Johnson has been in our eyes and ears for over 20 years with his silky smooth style and impeccable execution of the best beach campfire songs available.
So what happens when a few dub-masters get a hold of tunes created by Johnson and put their own spin on ‘em?
“In Between Dub” is a collection of some of Johnson’s most endeared tracks plucked from his extensive discography, masterfully mixed and blended by a select few of dub’s best artist’s – Subatomic Sound System, Scientist, Dennis Bovell, Nightmares On Wax, Mad Professor, Yaadcore, and the late, great Lee “Scratch” Perry are all responsible for whipping up this fresh new wave of flavor for your ears to surf on this summer.
So, is it a good move to completely change up historically successful songs? Songs that folks have been accustomed to hearing a certain way, for years and years? Judging by the Spotify numbers, I’d have to say yes. Multiple tracks already have well above a million streams in just over a month since the album’s release! I personally appreciate it when artists team up with others and forge something new, from something old, and this LP is a prime example.
In Between Dub, released 20 years after his first full-length record "On and On", is a perfect addition to his already massive body of work, exemplifying the versatility and timelessness of the songs he creates by letting a handful of talented music-makers twist and bend his songs to their taste. Knowing the man and his style, each “dubmaster” has retained that signature Jack Johnson mellowness embodied in his music, making sure to not throw off the vibe associated with his particular sound and likeness.
I’d have to say, “Traffic In The Sky” remixed by Lee “Scratch” Perry takes the top spot on the list for me. Perry is an eccentrically brilliant producer who I’ve loved for many years, so this combo definitely hit some auditory pleasure zones. “Breakdown”, remixed by Nightmares On Wax, also made its way into my ever-growing playlist; the dreamy-feeling melodies and synthy sounds coupled with Johnson’s comforting voice take this classic to new heights!
If you haven’t already, add In Between Dub (released on Johnson’s own label, Brushfire Records) to your arsenal and go sound-surfing today!
