ROBERT JON & THE WRECK: Heartbreaks & Last Goodbyes (ROCK): review / opinion to read on Music Waves

But how do they do it? Like their mentor, Joe Bonamassa, the question is worth asking, given that Robert Jon & The Wreck are releasing albums at a frenetic pace. It took less than a year for "Heartbreaks & Goodbyes" to follow "Red Moon Rising", which itself confirmed the excellence of its predecessors. Produced by Dave Cobb (Chris Stapleton, Greta Van Fleet, Rival Son, Whiskey Myers, Europe, etc.), this new opus confirms Jake Abernathie behind the keyboards, which is no small thing.

The keyboardist's role adds great value. He provides the perfect balance to Robert Jon Burrison's nuanced and unstoppable vocals and Henry James Schneekluth's ever-dazzling guitar work. He kicks things off with a big organ sound on the energetic and soaring 'Sittin' Pretty'. He is indispensable on every track, modulating his approach, such as the layers that weave a sunny backdrop with their heat haze ('I Wanna Give It'), or the delicate piano that reinforces the melancholy of the touching 'Heartbreak & Last Goodbye'.

As usual, the Californians vary their approaches, even if they focus a little more on their Southern origins, recalling legends of the genre such as Lynyrd Skynyrd (the moving ballad “Ashes In The Snow”) or Molly Hatchet (the groovy “Dark Angel” and its typical guitar harmonies). But what makes a Robert Jon & The Wreck album so rich is the multitude of influences that inhabit it. Co-written with John Oates, the edgy rock of 'Long Gone' is syncopated and has a captivating, multi-layered structure. The aptly named 'Highway' is a true anthem to the road and freedom, while 'Keep Myself Clean' serves as a final fireworks display in the twilight.

Once again, the quintet has produced a flawless and multifaceted work. The sun of the southern United States nestles at the heart of every note, but its intensity varies depending on the track, which are sometimes festive, sometimes melancholic, but always brilliant. While their counterparts in Whiskey Myers and Blackberry Smoke prefer to adopt a more leisurely pace of album releases, the Californian band is making its mark without sacrificing quality for quantity, which makes it all the more endearing. This is another album not to be missed, if you're in the mood for positive vibes and sincere, authentic emotions.
- Official website

ROBERT JON & THE WRECK

HEARTBREAKS & LAST GOODBYES

JOURNEYMAN RECORDS

ROCK