Music review: JD Eicher and the Goodnights – ‘Into Place’
Following up on the momentum from JD Eicher and the Goodnights’ sophomore effort “Shifting,” everything seems to be falling perfectly into place with the latest release of the intimately irresistible “Into Place.”
“I am what you call a work in progress,” proclaims lead singer JD Eicher on the opener “Ode to the Underdog.”
The new album elevates the local lads from underdogs to true rock stars with this final offering from the bandĢƵ musical trilogy, documenting a spirited journey of maturity and self fulfillment.
With Eicher on vocals and guitars, Ben Portz on keyboards, Jim Merhaut on bass and Dylan Kollat on drums, the talented quartet delivers another set of soulful, intelligent and intoxicating arrangements poignantly punctuated with EicherĢƵ introspective lyrics.
The band masterfully delivers uplifting songs of hope, love and living every moment to the fullest.
Mixing the infectious pop charm of Andy Grammer with a soulful vibe of Jason Mraz, “Into Place” is melodious, engaging and emotionally absorbing.
The funky “Give It Up” explodes into a contagiously profound number dealing up a fashionable message of unwavering determination and drive. The album peaks with the sultry “Lately Lady” fueled by the seductively arousing backing vocals of Joy Ike and equally stirring saxophone playing of Jerry DePizzo from O.A.R.
The light and breezy desirability of “I’d Like to Get to Know You” make it a perfect fit for mainstream radio appeal and larger market exposure.
The title track closes the musical pilgrimage with a spiritual reflectiveness and beauty that embodies Eicher at the core as he sings, “We’re the shape of things shifting into place.”
Fans can celebrate with the band at a CD release party for “Into Place” 9 p.m. on Saturday at PittsburghĢƵ Hard Rock Café at Station Square. Check out www.jdeicherandthegoodnights.com for more details and tickets.