Sleep Through The Static

Editorial Review

When word got out that guitarist-singer-songwriter Jack Johnson's fifth studio album would mark a change in direction for the artist, many fans around the world freaked out. The pre-release buzz indicated a musical sea change for the artist with a darker, more electrified rock sound, inspired by the death of his cousin, but that's not the case. So no need to pop that chill pill just yet with "Sleep Through The Static" sticking with the winning formula of gentle, comforting tunes, perfect for putting everything into a realistic perspective.

Launching off with "All At Once", Johnson lets us all know that he's got something on his mind using dark keyboard sounds to emphasise his words of being overwhelmed by world conditions and a sense of loss of control. The title track is a reflection on the war in Iraq, lightened by a spirited musical tone. The main difference on "Sleep Through The Static" to prior Johnson releases is a greater use of keyboards, adding a bit of bounce to "If I Had Eyes" (one of the few potential pop hits here) and "Hope" and some swagger to "Monsoon". However, the best musical moments occur when the arrangement is stripped to its most basic elements such as on the quietly disarming "Enemy" or the pleasingly intimate "Angel".

Additional Info

• Recording: STEREO
• Format: Single Case

Tracklisting