VINNIE JAMES: Songs For The Long Journey

Vinnie James

Songs For The Long Journey

© 2007 Vinnie James (837101300001)

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"An extremely penetrating new voice” (Rolling Stone). A patchouli-scented, love-powered, lyrical jackhammer —a song-poet Hickorywind.org calls “A lyrical wizard,” and Playboy says, “Hits the mark.” It's like Otis Redding meets Joe Cocker. Listen now.

notes

"Vigor, alarm, and a prophet's conviction"

A Short Vinnie James Biography
Written by Kel Brighton


Glasgow, Scotland - He's been called a cross between Marvin Gaye and Joe Cocker. He's been referred to as: "The black Bob Dylan." He's been compared to the likes of Otis Redding, Graham Parker, and Richie Havens. He's fondly embraced by scores of songwriters, musicians, concert-goers and music journalists, and his fanbase, both online and off, grows larger by the day. And today, I'm convinced you've discovered an artist who's music and message will touch you, and move you, in a way that is rare these days, and here are a few reasons why I believe that with all my heart:

Educated on the streets of Newark, and Atlantic City, New Jersey, and influenced by the R&B and folk artists of the late sixties and early seventies, Vinnie James is part Native American, part North African, and as Mike Boehm of the L.A. Times describes him: "Full of fire and in your face passion."

Most people never guess, from his laid-back attitude, that this ex-"homeless man," continues to be hailed by music journalists as one of today's most insightful and relevant songwriters, having already received widespread critical acclaim for his groundbreaking RCA debut, "All American Boy," in addition to major shows and world tours, with artists such as Sade, Carole King, Bonnie Raitt, Tina Turner, Pam Tillis, and many others.

At the center of Vinnie's unique sound is his raw, dusky vocal style, described by the Los Angeles Times as, "a husky, soul-tinged voice that recalls Graham Parker or Bob Seger..." and that, "...bristles with vigor, alarm and a prophet's conviction..."

Described as "a master wordsmith," by Maxine Jewett, President of the Southwest Acoustic Music Association, Vinnie James pens songs that take you from deeply moving, folk-roots ballads, to powerfully raw, full-blown R&B-based rockers, pulsating with hypnotic, tribal rhythms, and cradled in the R&B groove of drums, bass, church organs, and gospel choir backing vocals, and all laced with Vinnie's soulful vocals and his signature "acoustic jackhammer" guitar playing style.

Jim McKenna, who heads the Glasgow Festival of Songwriting in Glasgow, Scotland, calls Vinnie James, an "astonishing songwriter," who's songs explore themes ranging from political injustice and social revolution, to love, lust and tragic loss; all written with intricate, well-crafted poetic images, showing a refreshing vulnerability and "old-soul" character.

Gil Griffin of the Washington Post, says of Vinnie James, "...his writing exhibits a developed, analytical (and self-analytical) maturity." Cary Darling of the Orange County Register adds that Vinnie's music, "has a folk edge and fits squarely in the singer-songwriter tradition of Springsteen, Graham Parker, Elvis Costello and John Hiatt." Record industry icon David Geffen once called Vinnie James, "a distinctive multi-threat talent."

"It's such an honor that so many new people are discovering my music, and are so moved and inspired by it," James says, of his growing fan base. "When I write, I'm really just trying to bring a bit of peace and hope into a complicated, and sometimes scary world. I think people are relating to the music because they're feeling a lot of the same emotions I'm feeling and expressing in my songs, and the songs help them find an outlet, and a path of expression for those emotions."

Vinnie's newest offering, "Songs for the Long Journey," was recorded in a 15x20 foot garage on the outskirts of Glasgow, Scotland, and as you would expect from a songwriter of this caliber, "Songs for the Long Journey" is an engaging look at urban landscapes from a totally fresh, folk-R&B perspective, where Vinnie's emotion-soaked vocals and insightful lyrics are as evident as ever, and it's got the critics raving.

In his extensive and glowing review of James' new album, written for the well-respected online music magazine HickoryWind.org, Jim Pipkin declares: "...If this CD had already been released, it would have easily made my Top Ten for 2006. I would be very surprised if it doesn't make the cut for 2007." (Incidentally, Pipkin did go on to choose Vinnie's "Songs for the Long Journey" as the number ONE album of 2007).

Additionally, Maxine Jewett, President of the Prestigious Southwest Acoustic Music Association, writing an early review of the album, has this to say: "'Songs for the Long Journey' is much more than simply a CD; it is an audible work of art. Every cut could stand alone as its own CD, none are similar to the song before or after it. Vinnie James is a master wordsmith, "Homeless Man" is a remarkably poignant tale of compassion by the 'have nots' for those who have even less. Throughout the CD, James' commentary is critical but hopeful and the dynamics of the music are tricky, tricky, tricky. Listen to "County Line". Just when you think you know where this chord is going, he rips the rug out from underneath you. I love it!! My advice is buy two copies because you will wear one out."

When asked about his views on success, James adds, "I just want to be a songwriter who people can look back on many years from now and say, 'Vinnie James was an honest and committed artist who left a serious mark on the art of songwriting.'" The swelling critical acclaim, and the growing worldwide popularity of Vinnie James and his music, seem to indicate he's doing just that.

If you've come to CDBaby to find good music, don't leave today without adding Vinnie James to your music collection.

reviews

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  • Gotta love it!
    author: River Powers

    This is music that you have to listen to over and over again in order to feel like you've thoroughly heard it -- it is so full of texture with lyrics that you want to be sure you understand. I absolutely loved "All American Boy" (still keep it in the cd changer) and wondered how Vinnie would follow that album. "Songs for the Long Journey" is very different - more subdued - but still Vinnie James. I can't wait to hear the next album!!

  • wonderful album
    author: Jen

    I love this album I first found his music on myspace have been a fan every since. Haven't ever boughten a album where I can say that I love every one of the songs. It's just amazing his talent and cdbaby is great site while defiantly come back buy other music from it.

  • Great Album!
    author: WILSON GORGES

    "Songs for the Long Journey" is an album packed with great songs. Vinnie James is a very talented songwriter. I strongly recommend this CD.

  • WELCOME BACK, VINNIE!
    author: David Flanders

    It has been 16 years since I have heard anything new from the masterful Vinnie James. Yes, it’s been a long wait… and probably worth it. My first exposure to him was as an opening act (and who pays attention to those?) Fact is, though, he absolutely blew me away. This guy was, I thought, the next great star on the horizon. “Opening act” that he was, I felt he should be headlining ANY bill. That was in 1991, the year Vinnie released ALL AMERCAN BOY, one of the best albums I have EVER heard. (As I write this review, only 6 people have written reviews for that album on Amazon.com… but EVERY SINGLE ONE of them (including my own) is a 5-out-of-5-star super-positive rating.) So… The question is… Is THIS album that good? The quick and flippant answer is, “C’mon – what is?” And yet… Vinnie has come through. Are there flaws with this new album? Sure. Mostly, any faults I find are where Vinnie has resorted to clever recording techniques rather than simply relying on his greatest assets, his voice and his fine guitar work. For instance, a jarring echoing chant opens the album on “Lose the I” - this same chant plays MUCH better/smoother on the outro to the song. The opening is so harsh, and so un-Vinnie-like, that I personally would have tucked this track well into the body of the album, say around track 5 or 6. Or mellowed it out a bit, similar to the way the song ends. Another trick is an “AM-sound” reverb reminiscent of some Pink Floyd tracks on “Queen of the Dance.” It doesn’t stop the song from being absolutely great, but it also isn’t NECESSARY to make it great. Same is true for the rainstorm effect that opens “Children of the Garden of Eden.) A children’s choir opens and rejoins “Mister How Big is the World.” It WORKS with the song okay, and maybe it’s just me, but children added to ANY track on ANY album seems cutesy, contrived and winds up subtracting from the song, rather than adding something. Not so much a recording trick as simply a fact of local influences (not that this is a bad thing), a huge Irish whistle/ bagpipe sound features on “County Line.” There’s a little Celtic sound to “Queen of the Dance” and even some of the guitar in “Homeless Man.” (Welcome to recording in Glasgow.) But enough of the minor complaints… Some BIG pluses outweigh any little negatives: *Tight engineering and mixing, keeping background singers at just the right levels, good solid bass and drum lines that have power but never overpower. *Virtuosity – Vinnie plays EVERY instrument on the album except the bagpipe and whistles. He is accomplished on guitar (bonus points for the clever interplay of acoustic and electric guitars on “Summertime!”), bass, piano, organ, drums (and other percussion instruments), and the harmonica. He also wrote and arranged all the songs, and self-produced the album. *Cool almost-hip-hop funk groove/ sax, and unusual voice-synth thrown over “Save the World.” “Save the World” was initially released to the world via the promo market, as the “track to push” for the RCA album, ANTIGUA, which was shelved by the company and has never seen the light of day. The RCA cut was a more “smooth-jazz” version. This new edit shows a heavy-duty maturity and confidence. The privately-produced version seems more like what Vinnie had in mind when he wrote the song – way more solid, forceful and memorable. *Great lyrics that always seem to get across not only the story, but Vinnie’s positive outlook on life. *And, MAN – that voice! I swear, he could sing his ABC’s – y’know, the way you learn in gradeschool – and it would come off sounding lush, mellow, and perfect. Jersey Shore sound like you’ve never heard. This isn’t Bruce Springsteen or Bon Jovi. It’s better than all that (and I LIKE Bruce and Jon.) This album comes off more like Van Morrison songs as recorded by Otis Redding (if you can picture that!) Even that, though, isn’t an accurate description… mostly because Vinnie sounds like absolutely NO ONE you’ve ever heard before. I don’t know if it’s his AmerInd/African-American heritage or just a step up the folk-rock road no one else has taken yet, but his is a true one-of-a-kind voice – soulful, passionate, and soaked in righteous, heartfelt power. Standout tracks: Queen of the Dance Save The World County Line Summertime Hello Angel (especially reminiscent of some of the best of ALL AMERICAN BOY.) (No, “Summertime” is not a cover of the song you know. Neither is “Everlasting Love.” All of the songs on the album were written by Vinnie.) Okay, so this is not a PERFECT album (although I gotta say his 1991 release, ALL AMERICAN BOY is d*mn near what I’d call perfect.) But even with its (very) few flaws, ANY album by Vinnie is sure to stand head-and-shoulders above all but the VERY BEST things we get force-fed through mainstream media. This album is almost certainly better than anything you might be listening to right this minute. It is both a great blessing to have a new set of songs from this underrated master, and a criminal shame that so few “music fans” are paying attention. I would solidly give this album 4 stars out of 5… maybe even 4.5. What are you waiting for? Go buy a copy!

  • Soul Music
    author: Dallas Borden

    What can be added to what already been written? Except that the world NEEDS to hear this music. Now, more than ever.......

  • Worth the Wait....
    author: eddie

    After an absence of well over a decade, Vinnie James returns with a powerful album, deserving a wide audience. It has been in my CD player, non-stop, since I purchased it a few months ago. I can't recommend a favorite song, since it changes with each listen ( a good thing, as it speaks to the overall strength of each cut). He is an amazing songwriter, the kind we rarely see these days. Buy this album. You won't be disappointed....

  • Vinnie James is a master wordsmith
    author: Maxine Jewett, President, Southwest Acoustic Music

    "Songs for the Long Journey" is much more a than simply a CD; it is an audible work of art. Every cut could stand alone as its own CD, none are similar to the song before or after it. Vinnie James is a master wordsmith, "Homeless Man" is a remarkably poignant tale of compassion by the 'have nots' for those who have even less. Throughout the CD, James' commentary is critical but hopeful and the dynamics of the music are tricky, tricky, tricky. Listen to "County Line". Just when you think you know where this chord is going, he rips the rug out from underneath you. I love it!! My advice is buy two copies because you will wear one out. Maxine Jewett, President, Southwest Acoustic Music

  • Can't stop listening to it
    author: Shawn

    This CD is one of those I can't get out of my CD player. I know I should give it a rest so I don't wear it out, but I can't! The song "My Heaven" is one of the best songs I have heard in a VERY long time. The whole album gets 5 stars!

  • I love this amazing cd...You will too!!!!
    author: Ellnah

    Its always exciting when you listen through a new cd for the first time....Wich songs will go straight to your heart?Maybe none at first? In this case I knew I liked many of the songs already since I got to know Vinnie through My Space! I also knew that I love Vinnies voice which is very good and passionate! Well,the whole cd is amazing....The lyrics..brilliant and provoking...!(The first song *Lose the I*....BAM!!!!!) Speaking straight from my heart these are my favourites: *Everlasting love*...a great and very catchy song. *Save the world*....Oh, a really nice sound and a groovy feeling!I wanted to dance around at once! *My Heaven*...soooo beautiful!I get tears in my eyes listening to it. *Children of the garden of Eden* So smooooth and beautiful..mmmm.... If I " must " pick one favourite at this point:This is mine....Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh *love* Thanks Vinnie for this great cd and thanks cdbaby for your kindness and lovely mails;)

  • Take This Journey!!!!
    author: shelly

    this CD holds a beautiful array of songs covering everything from vinnie's compassionate commentary on the social injustices we see all around us to songs of new love, lost love and “Everlasting Love” (track #5).... from hard-edged, provoking lyrics to thoughtful, poetic lyrics every song touches some sense within me... i love this CD.... A Long Journey ...i want to take it every day... thanks vinnie....... (summertime!!!!!! (track #10).......love it, love it, love it!!!!....)

  • IT'S LIKE FOUND MONEY!!
    author: BILLY BAND

    When I Lstened to this CD by Vinnie James It was like I found money on the street or for you rich people like you were in on the ground floor of a great stock an IPO. Viinie writes from the heart he makes you believe what he's saying.Every tune is like a differnt journey. My favorite is the first song called Lose The I.. This tune takes you back into the 60's a toe tappin sing along type song with a message... I WANT,I NEED, I TAKE,I KILL... LOSE THE EYE BE A PART OF THE WORLD.Gospel by Vinnie James. This is a collection of songs you will listen to for a lifetime.

  • Crisp sound, superb songwriting, absolute excellence end to end!!
    author: Al - New York City

    This is an absolute amazing follow-up to one of the greatest storyline albums ever! Songs From the Long Journey is a great compilation of different sounds and messages, it easily is capable of touching the masses. "In this island city, a dirty snow begins to fall. I take refuge in the memories, of the summers i recall.." Love it....great album end to end....not one miss!!

  • Awesome! Powerful song writing at its best!
    author: Pete

    I bought All American Boy back in 1991 and still listen to it at least once a week. I have been waiting 16 years for this album and it does not dissapoint. This is packed with powerful songs that will make you sit back and listen and search out the deep meaning. From start to finish, this is an absolute classic that anyone who appreciates brilliant songwriting should have in their collection.

  • Fantastic!
    author: Bruce Rundman-Salt Lady Records

    Vinnie James has returned with power and passion. Songs For The Long Journey speaks to the world at a time when the world needs to listen. Each of the 11 songs finds its way from your ear to your brain to your heart. Highlights include Homeless Man, Queen of the Dance, County Line, My Heaven, and the haunting Hello Angel. Hello Angel takes the top prize for me so far. It's so beautiful. I love the simplicity of the stripped down recording. The power and strength of Vinnie's voice is the perfect match for the soft, simple guitar hook. While I wait for disc 3 from Vinnie, Songs For The Long Journey will remain in heavy rotation in my disc player and on my ipod.

  • Less raw passion more refined melodies
    author: Glen Allen

    I have waited literally years for the next album from Vinnie James and am not disappointed. Much has changed from the first album but much of the core elements remain. Gone perhaps is the anger of youth, remaining are the powerfull ideals and imagery that is what drew me initially to this artist. As always this music makes you conteplate, both the world and your part of it. I will admit I found the album to be a bit disjointed as the different styles of music often contrast with one another. I enjoyed the bluesy softer tones of "Children of the garden of Eden" but was not not as enamoured with the quicker tempo of the (I thought) simpler designed " Lose the I". Of course in the I can't bring to mind an album where I loved EVERY song. Happily though, one of the things I noticed in Vinne James' first album is that songs I did not like so much at first, I became more entranced with over the courses of many listenings as the melodies and ideas haunted me. Overall I find the album a welcome addition to my collection. I live in Oregon and find the music a perfect accompaniement to a rainy afternoon. I appreciate his flexing of his metaphorical muscles as he explores his range of abliities even if they don't all appeal to me. It is refreshing to see his development and his return to my Musical library. I hope this is just the first in a line of further Albums.

  • A must have for all good cd collections
    author: Donna-Marie

    This is one of the most thought provoking cd's I have heard in a long time. It's passionate, inspiring and written by an amazing musician, with a fantastic sound. It really is a must have for all cd collections.

  • ...these truly are songs for the long journey.
    author: Sharon Campbell, Neilston Music Festival, Glasgow

    You cant tick any particular box when describing Vinnie James - which, given the monotonous, guitar driven bands that we constantly come across today, is somewhat refreshing - A fusion or rock and folk is what you'll find on the menu, however it's Vinnie's ingredients that give this a certain edge - passionate vocals - heart-felt, thought provoking lyrics and exceptional guitar playing - A formula which accumulates to an ensemble of catchy, memorable songs - You'll find yourself hooked on and singing along to instantly! From the emotive, 'Homeless Man', one man's moving story of those less fortunate than ourselves to 'Summertime', a track which paints the picture of a once happy time to a love lost, I'm sure most can relate to... Vinnie is without a doubt one of the greatest lyricists I've ever had the pleasure of listening too, creating a collection of tracks that demand your attention from the beginning to the end of the album - not a bad song in 11! - What's more, is he's not afraid to write about subjects that are important given the current climate of the world we live in. As the album title suggests - these truly are songs for the long journey, as you'll never tire of playing them over and over again. Vinnie is in for a journey himself - to success!

  • Simply Outstanding!
    author: BKSY

    A Classic album of times past and times to come ! Simply outstanding songs, vocals and music. Takes your imagination and soul to places others never reach. Every self respecting music collection should have a Vinnie James Album pride of place! BKSY

  • LOVE IT.
    author: Sandi Selman

    I have had it for two days now. I have it on my computer and in my car. Vinnie has such a wonderful voice and the music is perfect. I find the CD outstanding. Can't wait for the next one.

  • V DAY Has Finally Arived
    author: Carolyn

    I just couldn't imagine not having this wonderful music in a collection. I bought 2 cd's so I can take one to the local radio station. Every song is as good as the next & I admire Vinnie for all the hard work on his LONG JOURNEY... All the songs have so much meaning & passion.. this one is a must have... CD Baby really treated me like a queen too...

  • author: cdbaby

    Melody's that have the power of provoking longing in the heart of the listener are down right rare. While listening to Vinnie James' new album thats exactly what I feel - longing. It's like I'm driving somewhere I've never been and there's a girl I just met two weeks ago in the seat next to me. Its going to be an awesome sunset. - cdbaby

  • Just great from beginning to end!
    author: Heléne Carlsson

    Normally when you come home with a new cd you may only have heard the song that has been released as a single. You´ve loved that one, BUT ever so often you notice that the rest of the songs are totally different from the single and nothing you like! Right? Well, with Vinnie James´ "Songs for the Long Journey" there is no such risk whatsoever! I don´t think I´ve ever heard a cd before where practically every song could have been chosen as a single! Just great from beginning to the end in other words!

  • Vinnie's music sets a fire in your soul.
    author: Janice

    Songs For The Long Journey brings it home.Each track provokes emotion. Homeless Man has you seeing through the eyes of a child and Summetime seems to bring back a forgotten memory. I highly recommend this CD to anyone who enjoys the songs of an amzing storyteller.

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