John Wright's Just Left of Center is a dimension of folk-rock that is wildly progressive and original. John is a bass player, singer and songwriter based in the Twin Cities region who's making a refreshing mark with this latest release. Packed with musical concepts often too technical for inexperienced players, these songs will strike you with thoughtful arrangements and uncommon ideas. He is truly a well-studied musician.

As an artist, he's gained an extensive resume. Wright has most notably played bass with guitarist Billy McLaughlin progressive rockers Us, the bluesy Rhythm Doctors, Celtic rockers the Stuart Martz Band, midwestern pop artist Tim Mahoney and roots rockers Kevin Bowe and the Okemah Prophets.

This exotic-mooded collection has influences ranging from an impressively wide variety of cultures. "Black Thorn Hill" hosts a musical theme centered around a modern acoustic guitar riff played over congo drums and an interesting tambourine rhythm. A surprising violin solo, played by Stuart Martz, celebrates the center of the piece and joins John to the exit. It makes a nice mix. Then John courts Matt Jacobs' drums on a journey through his tastefully enhanced version of an Irish traditional, "The Humors of Whiskey." John plays all other parts on this track on his trademark 8-string bass, with overdubs of acoustic and electric guitars.

Lyrically, Wright tackles some pretty heavy issues. His sparse definitions often leave the interpretation up to the listener. The more I read his words, the more meanings I could create from what was actually sung, so you're on your own there. The overall modal aura suggests both celestial and dark tones.

Just Left of Center has a good blend of instrumental and vocal tracks. Being a songwriter myself, I really appreciate John's ability to utilize the same expert musicianship that was ever present in progressive rock bands of the late '70s and early '80s. This is obviously no first-year player. John shows off his talent on many stringed instruments and vocal abilities as well. One of these which I am especially fond is the 8-stringed bass. This instrument adds rich annunciation to the underlying bass lines so often done injustice by the cheap speakers that plague the world.

Influences noted range from Pete Seeger to King Crimson, from Fairport Convention to The Dixie Dregs. To liken his style to a well-known sound, its definitely reminiscent of classic Yes, without keyboards and inhumanly possible layers of vocal overdubs. Knowing this, John Wright's live performances must sound really similar to the quality found on the studio recording. Just Left of Center contains quality writing in the progressive arena with an interesting, original twist.

[ by John Varner ]