John Taylor's latest release, Feelings Are Good and Other Lies, wasn't quite what I expected - a solid, unique, independent album. First, it is available only on mail order and it is released on a small indie label (instead of Capitol where his main band, Duran Duran are housed). It is a good freshman effort, and as expected, a couple names got pulled in to work on it; David Palmer (who's worked with Rod Stewart) and the Sex Pistols' Steve Jones plays guitar on all tracks to add that punky groove thing.
The lyrics are elemental and naked, full of personal angst of what he sees, knows, understands, and feels. If you like this type of lyrical writing, you'll love this album. It sounds along the lines of the Nirvana / Green Day / Foo Fighters, without being slickly produced. Phone instruments are also used to add flair to the style of the songs. Taylor's vocal's aren't bad either, but he still needs a bit of refining.
John is also part of a showcase group called the Neurotic Outsiders, which had a semi-residency in Los Angeles' hip Viper Room.
Taylor's album is available from B5 Records for $15; the label is located on the web at http://www.b5records.com/ or via e-mail at jtsmedia@aol.com
