All I Ever Wonder-A Soulful Musical Journey Through Life’s Highs and Lows

July 7, 2024 by Michela Arlia

All I Ever Wonder-album cover art

Brooklyn-born singer, songwriter, producer, and engineer Johnny Burgos’ latest album, All I Ever Wonder, is a soulful exploration that seamlessly blends R&B, R&B, Hip Hop, Funk, Pop, Salsa and Reggae into a compelling musical narrative. Bursting with emotive vocals and intricate instrumentation, Burgos delivers a performance that showcases both his vocal mastery and skillful songwriting.

Burgos shared his thoughts on the album, saying, “It’s accessible, honest, and soulful because I wanted it to speak to anyone who still wants music to relate to. Music to help you through the valleys, to celebrate the peaks, and be present for everything in between. It’s a journey of the soul that explores ego, insecurity, love, loss, survival, enlightenment and trusting the process.”

The album opens with “Plays for Keeps” , a hypnotic track that sets the tone with its smooth melodies and soulful vocals. “Hit Me Like” follows suit, blending infectious grooves with heartfelt lyrics that speak to theme

Johnny Burgos Lounging / photo by Henny Cakes / courtesy of the artist

s of love. One of the album’s highlights is its’ title track , “All I Ever Wonder,” where Burgos’ vocals truly shine alongside rich production and infectious rhythms. This track not only captivates with sound, but also carries a lyrical depth that explores wants and needs.

Moving into the second half of the album, “Something’s Gotta Give” introduces a more laid-back sound, yet maintains the album’s blend of soul and funk. Its catchy hooks make it a standout track, perfect for both late-night drives and social gatherings alike. Closing with “Old Man,” Burgos delivers a touching final track with emotional depth. Singing on reflection, the track’s stripped-down instrumentation allows his voice to take center stage, leaving a lasting impression of vulnerability and hope.

Vintage NYC/ photo by Jacob Feingold / courtesy of the artist

All I Ever Wonder is a testament to Johnny Burgos’ evolution as an artist, blending introspective lyricism with infectious melodies and genre-bending production. Each track offers something unique while maintaining one specific sound that flows seamlessly from start to finish, with its rich textures and heartfelt storytelling.

Artists on our Radar

Janet LaBelle Takes the Spotlight: Blending Vintage Vibes with Modern Magic

Janet Labelle With Guitar In Hand / photo by John Nyboer

Dynamic Brooklyn-based singer-songwriter Janet LaBelle continues to push her creative boundaries. Known for her unique ability to fuse analog warmth with modern production, LaBelle has been praised by Jersey Beat for her “sweet voice and sharp, thoughtful songwriting,” and her newest projects are no exception. Her music defies easy categorization, effortlessly blending elements of folk, classic rock, and pop into a sound that feels both fresh and timeless. LaBelle recently released her single “Day in the Sun” on September 13 via her own Wild Violet Records, and it has already been captivating audiences with its sunny melodies and deeply personal narrative. The song, inspired by a meaningful hike with a friend in 2023, showcases her talent for finding beauty in simplicity, a theme that resonates through much of her work. The inclusion of horns marks an exciting creative evolution, adding a new layer of depth to her already richly textured sound. Throughout her career, LaBelle has explored a wide range of musical styles. She first made waves as a teenager in the punk-pop band Avery, and since then, her solo work has spanned genres like classic rock, folk, pop, and even French chanson. Her previous EPs, including Moon Songs (2010) and Blossom & Blue (2011), demonstrate her eclectic tastes, with influences ranging from surf rock to vintage country. Working with respected producers such as Evan Taylor (Bernie Worrell) and Tony Maimone (Pere Ubu, They Might Be Giants), LaBelle continues to expand her sound, evolving with each new release. Fans can catch her live at upcoming performances, including a show at Our Wicked Lady on September 24th and at Sleepwalk on December 3rd. These live shows will give listeners a chance to hear both her new and classic material in an up-close setting. Her combination of memorable songs, captivating performances and a unique voice sets her apart as an artist who continues to rise, drawing listeners in with every new creation.

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