I think one of the reasons I’m such a big fan of Frank Turner, Tim Barry, and John K. Samson is because of how vastly different their solo music is than their full band offerings. Before Turner struck out on his own, he was in a hardcore group called Million Dead. Tim Barry fronted Avail, and John K. Samson was in Propagandhi before he formed The Weakerthans, and ultimately went solo. There’s just something about hearing these singers in a completely different element. With Along the Dark Edges of Everything, Boston’s Sam Johnson joins that illustrious club.
Along the Dark Edges of Everything (out 9/24/2021) is Johnson’s solo debut. Instead of the post-hardcore sounds of Choke Up, you’re hit with a healthy dose of good old Americana where each song tells a story. It’s a departure from his group, but there’s an engrossing authenticity to each song that draws you in. I mentioned him already above, but if you like John K. Samson, then you’re going to love Sam Johnson. I highly recommend checking out some of Johnson’s music. They truly are works of art.
Ahead of the release of his new album, Sam stopped by to give us some insight into his tastes by talking about his favorite album, as well as which ones he would pick as overrated and underrated. Check it out below!
Favorite Album
“Trouble Will Find Me by The National is my dark horse favorite album. It’s not nostalgic for me like a lot of other contenders, and it’s not hugely influential on my songwriting, but it completely captivates me every time I listen. Funny and heartbreaking, mellow and manic. It’s slow burn indie rock with cinematic dynamics.”
Overrated Album
Neutral Milk Hotel, In the Aeroplane Over the Sea. I was a huge fan of this album when I was first introduced to it in like 2004, but ever since I heard someone cover ‘Oh, Comely’ at a birthday party I can’t listen to it without wincing.”
Underrated Album
“Julia Jacklin, Crushing. Not sure how underrated this one is, but I feel like Crushing by Julia Jacklin should have catapulted the Australian singer/songwriter to indie stardom. The songs on this album are gorgeous and brutal, and Jacklin’s candid observations about failed relationships will make you think, “I’ve had that exact thought but she said it so much better.” Bonus points to the track ‘Pressure To Party’ for being simultaneously fun as hell, sad as hell, and relatable as hell.”
