JOhn & judy rodman - Here we are

John & Judy Rodman

Here We Are
Rivermoon Records; 2015

3.6 out of 5

By Ted Rogen

Judy Rodman has quite a resume. She is an award winning recording artist, stage and television performer, producer and songwriter. She was given an award for Top New Female Vocalist by Billboard and Academy of Country Music and played on stages such as Farm Aid and The Tonight Show. She even co-wrote Leann Rimes “One Way Ticket (Because I Can).” Her husband John is a professional drummer who had his fair share of successes as well. Form being a live tour drummer to being requested to play on jingles - the man has some experience. 

In possibly the cutest move ever the couple combines forces on their release Here We Are. The album contains seven country songs that sound better than 90% of the country music on the radio these days. It is country that dips its toes into other genres but never takes a plunge. 

It’s no wonder that Rodman was given an award for her voice because she sounds great. I don’t care if you are the most jaded hipster this side of Brooklyn there is no denying she can belt out a tune. She minded me of Loretta Lynn and Dolly Parton at times

The album starts with arguably the best song on the album “Somethin’ Like That”. It’s covered in a upbeat country flavor that is hard to deny. The instrumentation is crisp, warm and works great against the vocal style and delivery. “When the Day is Over” is an nostalgic melancholy number that spews with emotion. The lyrics are straightforward and don’t need much explanation when she sings, “Because everything we need is here.” 

“Something Bad” is another solid yet slower number that feels laid-back and smooth. The organ was a nice touch on this song. The only track that didn’t do much for me was “There We Are.” I wasn’t a fan of the synths in this song and it had a bit of cheesy ‘80s feel. The album gets back on track with horn filled  “You Want It Back” and “Sweet Dreams.”

Here We Are is a solid album that is easy to appreciate. Recommended

Become A Fan

---

official website

Tweet