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Yeah, he was a contestant on “American Idol,” but don’t expect Manilow levels of showbiz schmaltz from Jon Peter Lewis’ sophomore release, Break the Silence – for better or worse, he identifies far more strongly with slightly rockin’ singer/songwriters like Richard Marx. Fortunately, he’s absorbed more from his influences than the ability to be tasteful; Silence is stacked with unexpectedly ingratiating melodies, put across by Peters’ clear, graceful vocals and abetted by a band of session ringers that includes drummer Kenny Aronoff, guitarist Tim Pierce, and studio utility infielder Charles Judge. More convincing than Clay Aiken and more entertaining than Daughtry, Lewis should be on the Top 40 instead of selling his wares on a piddling little indie label – really, the set’s only major problem is Lewis’ occasional dependence on platitudes like ”Even in your darkest hour / You’re still beautiful.” Well, that and the fact that he’s the millionth person to cover Dylan’s “To Make You Feel My Love” – but if you’ve got a weakness for soaring melodies and impeccably arranged pop-rock, you’ll be willing to forgive these minor trespasses. It’s a minor gem, but Break the Silence still shines brightly. (Cockaroo 2008)
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LoL! I must be a sucker for “soaring melodies and impeccably arranged pop-rock” then, because I LOVE this album. Thanks for the review on it. Like you said, it is an indie label but a gem that shines brightly none the less.
I’ve only heard one song from this album, the title song “Break The Silence”, but that alone would make me immediately give this album the full five star treatment.
It’s more than a minor gem, and once it’s released and people worldwide have had a chance to hear the music, they will agree that this album will make a diamond seem like an ordinary marble.
Put simply, JPL rocks and his music needs to be heard.
Cheers, Mikey
You’re going to fault Jon for putting a classic song on his album? Really? Come on now.
This is a really great album. Jon’s voice and phrasing are great. He’s one of those singers who doesn’t need the voice manipulation so common in music these days. In fact, while he sounds phenomenal on the album, he sounds even better in person.
If you like great voice, get this album!
This is a fantastic cd. The more I listen to it, the more I am loving the songs. The title cut “Break The Silence” is one of those perfect pop songs and should be heard by everyone. I think it’s the perfect song to be used for movie trailers. I prefer Jon’s take on “Winning Streak” over Sweden’s Pop Idol 4 winner Marie Picasso’s version. Overall, the cd is very strong and people should ignore their preconceived notions about the guy and give this cd a chance.