Jonathan Terrell — A Couple 2, 3
At the beginning of his career, Jonathan Terrell balanced his solo career by being the frontman of the rock n roll band Not in the Face. The fact that his solo albums have earned him comparisons to Bruce Springsteen just shows his versatility as a performer.
Terrell’s New EP A Couple 2, 3 is a showcase for both his prowess in writing lyrics and melodies that stay with you. Of the new EP, he said, “I’m ready for something new, and I’m ready to take that next step.” This EP shows that the next step was a good one.
The EP begins with “Samantha,” a song that is ready-made to get people moving on the hardwood floor of a honky-tonk. The beat is enough to get your boots scooting while the guitar provides the necessary twang. Terrell’s vocals are similar to Chris Shiflett’s and the chorus is easy to sing along with. You might find yourself singing particularly loudly when he sings, “Leave it all behind and go find you.” The lyrics tell the story of a woman who saved money from her waitress job so she could move to the country and plant a garden.
“Paint by Lightning” is a song that shows just how poetic Terrell can be with his lyrics. Over an acoustic guitar and a pedal steel, he sings lines like “cowboy romeos leave your hands full of drunken poems.” It’s similar to American Aquarium in that it feels like a short story set to music.
“Texas” is another song that shows Terrell’s skill at crafting a phrase in his lyrics. The song opens with the line, “Well, you could have it all, but where would you put it unless you got room to roam?” It brings to mind some songwriting greats like John Prine. This song also features some pedal steel, but also a piano part that wouldn’t be out of place in a movie scene in a saloon.
The beginning of “Place Out Back” seems immediately familiar. With the rhythm and the bluesy melody, this one feels like it could just as easily be a Delbert McClinton song. This is another one that will have you looking for a dance partner, even if you’re in your own living room.
With only six songs, this EP gives you enough of a taste of Terrell’s abilities that you’ll want to seek out more of his music. The melodies are catchy and the lyrics are both thought-provoking and easy to sing.
Find the music here: https://www.jonathanterrellmusic.com
Jonathan Terrell – vocals, guitar, acoustic guitar, harmonica
Douglas Day – drums, percussion
Simon Page, guitar, pedal steel
Scott Lee Jr. – bass
Beau Bedford – piano, organ, guitar, synthesizer, bass, Wurlitzer
Charley Wiles – guitar
Paul Grass – drums
Produced by Beau Bedford at Modern Electric Studios, Dallas
Mastered by Brian Lucey at Magic Garden Mastering, Los Angeles