"The recordings are the artifacts from my life, like a journal or a book. I try to capture something real, that others can be in on. For me, a song is something we can connect over - like a great meal, a celebration or a conversation. These records and live performances are my way of showing up at the dinner table to meet my friends and family, both old and new. Songs are simple reflections of my life, a sort of dinner table dialogue about my struggles, my faith, my fears, and my dreams, maybe even a few of my jokes. These songs are glimpses of what is going on in my world, what I am learning, remembering, or what I am trying to forget." --Excerpted from an Interview with JJ Worthen, July 14, 2007
JJ Worthen is a standout, a dynamic young man of contrast and range. Not only musically, but personally. In spite of his youthful disposition, he has the character and experience of a wise and worldly sage. It is, as JJ would admit himself, difficult to distinguish his world from the world we enter in his music.
In the music, Worthen contrasts the neoclassical restraint of an intellectual composer with the fearless energy and angst of a riotous young man on the way to war. This music is full of surprise, as Worthen seems to write without formulas or agendas. The music is exciting, and each song is a unique glimpse at the evolution of a young man on a journey to connect with people all over the world. Worthen's small-town, Texas charm is contrasted by a tremendous range of artistic and musical sensibilities. His formal education, relentless work ethic, love of people, and experience from performing music all over the world (everything from cathedrals to carnivals) has shaped him into a deft storyteller full of life, risk, and passion.
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"Devotee" reviewed by RadioIndy.com!
"JJ Worthen's album "Devotee" is ready to be heard. JJ has a powerful voice that harnesses a songbird quality on the tracks of this CD. He writes catchy, complete, polished songs with great energy and pleasing arrangements. This is a rock album more than anything. The songs have a great live quality to them. The production on this CD is creative and very professional. The title track "Devotee" features memorable lyrics and a powerful vocal performance. "Nobody Knows" is surprisingly heavy, with a great opening guitar lick leading into a real rocker. "Autumn Leaves" completes the album nicely, leaving you feeling hopeful. If you like Rufus Wainwright, Damien Rice or Queen, you will like this one."
-William and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
