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Concert Review: john Arthur martinez JAMming at Visonland | |
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Reviewed by Mike A.
On a beautifully sunny Saturday afternoon john Arthur martinez took the stage at Visionland Theme Park's Coca-Cola stage, marking his first concert appearance in Alabama, and commenting "There have been a lot of first times this summer." Since coming in second in the Nashville Star competition john Arthur's life and career has certainly changed. Now a household name he's managed by one of the top agencies and is currently in negotiations for his first record contract. But none of that mattered on this day, it was all about the music.
john Arthur martinez (JAM) performed with his band Tejas, and together they bring an impressive range of music to the table. From standard Texas Swing, to Tex/Mex, Cajun and country. JAM commands the stage like a veteran and grabs the audience's attention as he sings, swinging his hips and taping out the beat as he served up his delicious blend of country music in the blistering summer heat.
While mostly letting the music speak for itself, JAM did explain a few songs, starting with "Trouble Rides a Fast Horse" which he informed us was inspired by a scene in the movie Tombstone and was co-written by his wife, but was 'NOT' about his wife. Before singing "Frijoles con Arroz" (Beans and Rice) JAM explained that this was a personal song about his life. When his wife told him to quit his day job and focus on music, JAM knew that money would be tight, but as long as he had Yvonna (his wife) he could live on beans and rice.
JAM played a slow, inspiring song, "Spinning Our Wheels" about living our lives too fast. john Arthur had a sad looked as he explained that this song was inspired by his days as a teacher, where he saw too many kids live to fast and not make it.
Then a mostly acoustic set turned loud and electric as JAM and Tejas rocked the stage with the fan-favorite hit "The Man Who Holds The Bow." A song you probably heard on Nashville Star.
john Arthur closed with his version of the Latin hit "La Bamba" showcasing the very-talented Tejas.
All in all, the Nashville Star runner-up proved to be much more than a reality-TV gimmick act. john Arthur martinez is a great songwriter, and an incredible performer worthy of a headlining tour and record contract - both of which I am sure he will have soon.
Set List:
Sound clips courtesy of JAM Records
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