The Great Book of John

The Great Book of John's songs sanction listeners to purge themselves of life’s frivolities and embrace sentiments of poverty. Often saturated with our own obscure mysteries, the visions are voiced by a writer bold and unapologetic enough to remind listeners the hardest times and the biggest battles often strike the unconventional person as the most beautiful. Backing these lyrical catharses on songs such as “Political Song” and “James” is Bekah Fox, lending her harmonies to enhance dynamics and swells. The steady Chip Kilpatrick grounds the evocative tunes by finding the ideal beat to substantiate the smallest murmurs and grandest build-ups. Helping contribute to Kilpatrick’s virtuosic drumming is Alex Mitchell, an essential component to the complex syncopation Mitchell so frequently utilizes in songs such as “Circus Song” and “In a Strange Dream My Darling Mona Lisa.” The energetic bass lines of Mitchell and solid rhythm of Kilpatrick combine to create the undertones of each song--whether blues, folk, rock-n-roll, or even hip hop. Songs such as “Death of a Middle School Guidance Counselor” serve as perfect examples of the band’s dramatic dynamics by introducing a captivating slow heart beat, unnoticeable at first, which billows to an overwhelming pulsation with each member avidly harping on the same beat. It is truly enchanting to listen and watch the members of The Great Book of John soulfully unite to properly expose Shaw’s music of the unpretentious vibe it exudes.