ROCKIN’ JOHNNY BAND

Now’s The Time

Self-Release

By Eric Schelkopf

Now that Chicago area musician Rockin' Johnny has returned to the music scene after a self-imposed absence that stretched almost a decade, perhaps he should change his stage moniker.

Johnny Burgin’s nickname seems out of place with the soul and sensitivity that he displays on his new CD, Now's The Time.

His reverence for traditional blues is quite evident throughout the CD as the music honors those who have come before him.  That he counts blues legends like Taildragger, Pinetop Perkins and Billy Boy Arnold as his teachers comes as no surprise.

Those wanting some rocked-up, warmed over blues would do better by looking elsewhere.  Rockin' Johnny is not interested in offering up leftovers.

Burgin’s West Side influenced guitar playing and his vocals have matured and are now at a level that should earn respect from all blues fans.

That is made even more evident by comparing Now's The Time to his 2000 live effort, More Real Folk Blues, which only hints at the musician he would become.

Choice cuts on the CD include the slow-burning title track and the haunting "War Boy," a Luther Tucker song that showcases how Burgin has come into his own as a blues musician.

That is not to say that Now's The Time is a highbrow, stuffy album.  Rockin' Johnny also has a playful side, most notably on the original song "Hippie Dance."

If that tune doesn't get you out on the dance floor, or at least tapping your feet, then you need to check your soul to make sure it is in working order.

Fortunately, Rockin' Johnny also is touring extensively these days, so there are plenty of opportunities to see what this blues force can do live. 

A full schedule is available at his website: www.rockinjohnnyband.com

To read Chicago Blues Guide’s story about Rockin’ Johnny’s comeback CLICK HERE

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