Single reviewsThe Other Side Reviews

John McDonough – Point Me East (2022)

With over 25 years performing in the music industry, US-based John McDonough has experience that many newer artists would give their left arm for. In excess of 500 gigs, 11 music festivals, touring the United States, and receiving coverage across the globe from blogs and radio stations, it’s clear to say that McDonough is a force to be reckoned with. Approximately 10 years ago, this singer-songwriter retired from psychotherapy to hone his musical talent releasing several original albums. Come with us as we delve into one of his latest single releases, ‘Point Me East’.



Following his 2021 single ‘Shooting Star’ (a song that scored #1 on the UK iTunes), McDonough gives us ‘Point Me East’. The third track off his concept EP We’ll Answer The Call, ‘Point Me East’ is unique in its style. McDonough explains that the song is “sung from the point of view of the Husky Clipper, the eight-man racing shell used to win gold in the 1936 Berlin Olympic Games. The fully restored shell, on display at the University of Washington Shell House, provides inspiration for generations past and present.”

Just as ‘Point Me East’ stands out as a song sung with an almost autobiographical narrative, it also stands out among the remaining four tracks on We’ll Answer The Call. While all the tracks on his EP showcase McDonough’s versatility as he traverses various genres, ‘Point Me East’ is slower, smoother and more laidback. Rich, full-bodied and robust, there is a smile-inducing quality to this ballad; however, a tenderness exists in the flowing melody. Interestingly enough, while the lyrical content is not melancholic, the acoustic-inspired arrangement certainly prompts a profoundness in the folk-tinged song.

Sincere, sentimental and sensitive, John McDonough touches on vulnerability and fragility in this intensely intimate (although also empowering) new single.

For more from John McDonough check out his official website, Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.

This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator