Johnny & The Brewsers – Day In The Sun (2021)
Born as a result of boredom during the Covid-19 lockdowns, Johnny & The Brewsers is the solo project of veteran musician Johnny. While he is primarily a drummer, Ireland-based Johnny has moved to the realm of multi-instrumentalists focusing on learning several instruments. This might be due to an accident causing spinal damage curtailing his drumming abilities or just a determination to keep making music, perhaps both? What I do know is this new project is an intriguing one. The first of hopefully many singles is his debut track ‘Day In The Sun’.
Merging elements of rock ‘n’ with grunge and blues, ‘Day In The Sun’ is an exploration of the grittier side of stubbornness. Touching on issues of longing, denial, desire and selfishness, Johnny tells us about the yearning for a day in despite being “as clear as mud”. Personally, I think this is quite an engaging and relevant context in today’s insular social media society…then again I overanalyse things. It might just be a reprimand of someone who isn’t quite getting it, but it could also be more.
As intriguing as the lyricism is, it is the melody that adds showcases Johnny’s innovation. Upbeat and infectious, there is a harmonic blend of hard-hitting guitars and drums. Yet, the deeper tones enhance the poignancy of ‘Day In The Sun’ with aggressive forcefulness. The gruff choruses are intertwined with crescendos into enchanting guitar solos. Using a DIY style, the talented musician creates a sonic representation of the anger, angst and “oh what the f*ck-ness” of a frustrated kid who “never learns”.
In addition to the single, Johnny & The Brewsers released a music video for ‘Day In The Sun’. The video can be viewed here. He will also be releasing a debut EP, Lizard Lounge Licks, later in the month.
For more from Johnny & The Brewsers check out his Instagram and Spotify.
