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Jim Abbott about Grapefruit Moon

logo_soundboardThey are still coming in: Another blog reviewed GRAPEFRUIT MOON – and gave another just very brief statement about the actress who did that other Tom Waits cover album:

That Scarlett Johansson album of Tom Waits’ songs was a mess, but there’s another Waits tribute project on the way…

Jim Abbott at the Sunshine State newspaper’s blog: THE ORLANDO SENTINEL – SOUNDBOARD delivered his take on the album already in May, according to the timestamp on the blog! How the heck did he get his hand on the pre-release copy??? Anyway, he deserved all the treatment, since he offers another priceless quote from Johnny:

“I have been an envious admirer of Tom’s songwriting ability from his earliest albums – and have decided to beautify myself with his feathers,” says Southside. “He graciously allowed me that opportunity, and even deigned to sing what may laughingly be called harmony on one song. Our two voices together may be illegal in some states, but the deed is done, and let the chips fall where they may.”

That fact about illegal duets is something, we really now have to keep in mind when we are going to re-evaluate John’s work over all the years! And does the NJ state attorney care about that at all? Or would California state law have to be applied here, since “Walk Away” has been recorded in the Schwarzenegger state? Anyway, while somebody should have stopped before-mentioned sweet Hollywood actress, nobody could stop the fearless chansonier – not even the law! If they want, let them send the troopers to Ocean Grove…! We will hide John in Europe…! How ’bout Belgium…?

Jim continues:

Grapefruit Moon marries the brassy, ballsy sound of big band to Tom Waits’ cinematic, character-driven songs, creating a vibe that evokes the street-smart, houserockin’ swagger that made Southside Johnny and his band the Asbury Jukes legendary (…).

Waits not only gave Southside his blessing for the album – he lends his vocals to “Walk Away”, a song in which he and Southside do what they do best: lay bare the souls of ordinary people with all their problems and dreams, but with an insouciance that brings a rueful laugh. The styles of music explored on the album range from blues to New Orleans strut to swing and even a romantic brass choir on “Johnsburg, Illionois.”

It doesn’t matter how marriage laws in California or Jersey did change recently, or will change again, or should be changed in the future… This marriage – obviously – has been made in Big-Band heaven…

Although I wanted to ignore blogs referring to Scarlett… sincere thanks for that review Jim!

Read Jim’s full take on GRAPEFRUIT MOON at THE ORLANDO SENTINEL