Johnny Ashby Returns with the Radio-Ready EP, In Bloom
Johnny Ashby’s In Bloom EP is a collection of upbeat Americana tracks that are radio-ready. The British singer-songwriter moved to Los Angeles with a suitcase full of clothes and his guitar with dreams of playing the legendary Troubadour. Since then, his releases have become well acclaimed, his music has been featured on Primetime television shows, and he has played the Troubadour various times. His sound is inspired by the likes of Kings of Leon and Coldplay, which have a similar upbeat sound. In Bloom is co-written and produced with Ashby’s friends Fredrik Eriksson, Sebastian Frize, and Bill Delia from the band Grizfolk.
Ashby took to Instagram for the release of his album to say, “This EP was written and recorded in its entirety, while in lockdown... on Zoom!!!!! A collection of songs that lyrically fit where we are right now. They’re very true of the time in which they were written. They all have this ‘heat of the moment’ feel for me because we managed to capture the emotion and feeling on each track right there and then.”
Starting with “Never Let You Go” gives fans a look into what is to come for this EP. Ashby’s layered vocals lead the track into hopeful bliss. This empowering anthem takes on a multitude of meanings based on the listener’s interpretation. The title-track is full of shimmery guitar melodies and thought-provoking lyrics, with an accompanying music video for the track taking place on a bright and sunny beach day. “SOS” is a step up from the previous two, adding a bit more flare. It’s a folk pop blend that features a honky tonk piano throughout. It is all about friendships and solidarity, based on the idea of being lost and wanting to be found. The leading single “Born Again” has soundscapes that mimics a utopian atmosphere, with an anthem-like chorus. It is an emotional release and a moment of clarity among tough times. Things wrap up with “Found You”, where there is a similar style to the previous track. It echoes and the lyrics are a mood booster, bound to get stuck in your head. Ashby’s Indie Americana style is refreshing and stays true to who he is as an artist.
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