JD McPherson is a phenomenal musician. His style is a mix of a 50’s swing, with good bit of Oklahoma country, and a streak of Rockabilly. His Rhythm and Blues is that to be compared to the likes of Little Richard and Chuck Berry. While his Southern folksy flair reminds me of a mid-fifties Cochran Brothers. It is truly the essence of American Rock ‘n’ Roll.
When McPherson performs, his show is like that of none other. A clear toned guitar intro interrupts the murmur of the crowd as he begins his hit “Dimes for Nickels”. Immediately the room is filled with twirling skirts and jiving couples, as the catchy beat grasps hold of your hands and feet. Adrenaline consumes you, while both young and old bop to his anthems of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
McPherson sings with such power and soul, you can’t help but wonder if the Scottish man in front of you is lip-syncing and a black gospel singer is in the back belting out the lyrics for him. But no no, McPherson is just that good. His voice captivates the audience with a daring shout, as he rocks out electric chords on his blond Fender Stratocaster.
Although McPherson’s sound is influenced by “old school” music, it’s certainly not a time-machine record. Subtle streaks of Punk and Hip Hop weave into his style, making his music a modernized Rock ‘n’ Roll. (Without making it sound like a toddler finger painted with genres.) One of McPherson’s greatest talents is he doesn’t just have a sound, he molds it to what he wants.
McPherson has performed on numerous late night shows including: Conan, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, and David Letterman to name a few. In 2012 Rolling Stone Magazine called McPherson an “artist to watch”. His album “Signs & Signifiers”, was awarded Best Rock/Hard Rock album by the Independent Music Awards.
His band consists of bassist Jimmy Sutton, drummer Jason Smay, Ray Jacildo on keys and synthesizer, and Sax/multi-instrumentalist, Doug Corcoran. These men are great musicians and even better people.
McPherson’s album “Signs & Signifiers” is truly amazing. His music is perfect at any given time, whether it’s being played at a swing hall or while you’re washing the dishes. His is the kind of music that’s appropriate enough to play around your brothers kid, but the great thing about McPherson is, you actually enjoy his songs. (No! No more wheels ’round the bus! Please!)
All in all, if you don’t already know who JD McPherson is, go check him out. If he is ever performing near you go and see him. The boys put on a show that will not disappoint.
McPherson’s new album “Let The Good Times Roll” will be released February, 10, 2015. Click here to pre-order the album, both in CD and LP Record. Currently the first 100 orders get a free “Let The Good Times Roll” patch.
You can find JD McPherson on Facebook, Twitter, and at http://jdmcpherson.com You can purchase Signs and Signifiers on Amazon and ITunes.
Gems of Genres 