Music Reviews
Joe Boris - Anthology
Hears what's Up
-Joe Boris-Anthology
"Joe Boris skillfully marries elements of Classic Rock, Country, Americana, and Jamband genres"
"an immersive, almost cinematic musical experience"
"Anthology is one helluva album. Songwriter/Guitarist Joe Boris has assembled this 2-Disc collection of his recordings covering the past 3 or so decades, and it's a formidable beast of musicianship."
"Anthology is no misnomer, and it’s also well worth investigating."
"...whilst the building blocks might be familiar, as always, it is the sonic architecture that the artists build with those materials which count. The sonic architecture that Joe Boris builds over this extensive and rewarding sonic collection is nothing short of extraordinary."
"This album showcases [Boris's] artistic virtuosity and serves as an immersive experience that absolutely warrants a listen."
"You get the sense that playing and singing this kind of music is nearly second nature to [Joe]. He doesn’t ‘choose’ to perform in this style; rather, it just comes out of him as easily as normal conversation."
"Joe Boris has a whole lot of music in him; more than a typical 10-15 track album can contain. Like a really good jazz or blues concert, Boris gets going well, and doesn’t seem to want to stop. You may not want him to stop, either."
"...with the release of his double album retrospective, aptly entitled Anthology, you can see just what all the fuss is about. And if, like me, your first taste of Joe was through the slinky and ska-infused Set Me Free, this album will be a revelation."
"...a masterful release, one that has a roots vibe at its core but then uses such a sonic vehicle to drive through blues boundaries and country demarcations, funky fences through rock realms and even take a spin in more island vibes and acoustic hangouts."
"Impressive as hell, really."
----------
JUST FAME
https://just-fame.com/unraveling-the-sonic-journey-of-joe-boris-latest-album-anthology/
Unraveling the Sonic Journey of Joe Boris’ Latest Album ‘Anthology’
Presenting his newest two-part album Anthology which encapsulates an impressive 30 tracks, Joe Boris skillfully marries elements of Classic Rock, Country, Americana, and Jamband genres. The result is a musical journey that evokes a sense of familiarity, yet introduces listeners to a uniquely refreshing sonic world. Tracks Ain’t Easy and Firing Line stand out with their powerful charm and classic appeal respectively. Joe’s deft guitar play skillfully intertwines with his expressive vocals, shaping melodies that are brimming with emotion and bewitching allure. The tracks have remarkable sonic structures that are bolstered by a rhythmic fervor that flows through each note, inviting listeners into a deeply layered auditory exploration. This album showcases his artistic virtuosity and serves as an immersive experience that absolutely warrants a listen.
With its vast array of 30 tracks, Joe’s album creates an immersive, almost cinematic musical experience. Each song is a chapter, creating its own ambiance and tone, together weaving a tapestry of sound that is breathtakingly diverse yet harmoniously connected. Joe’s intuitive blend of genres fosters unexpected melodic twists, catapulting listeners into a unique realm of auditory exploration. It’s not just an album, it’s a journey—a journey that stirs the soul and invigorates the senses in ways you wouldn’t anticipate.
Genre-blending, an aspect of paramount importance in music, is a challenge that Joe tackles with inventive finesse. His approach pushes the boundaries of traditional musical genres and sets the bar higher for listener expectations.
Ensure you don’t let this entrancing melody pass you by – it’s available now on Spotify for your listening pleasure. Surrender to its spellbinding allure.
----------
SKOPE MAGAZINE
https://skopemag.com/2023/07/13/joe-boris-new-album-anthology
With the advent of digital music distribution, albums just seem to be getting longer and longer all the time. Take Anthology by Joe Boris, for example. His release contains 30 songs and lasts two hours and 38 minutes. There are Hollywood movies that clock in with shorter lengths than that. Thus, just listening all the way through to this release is a project. One that requires you carve out enough time to finish it. However, if you give yourself enough time, it is more than worth the effort.
One aspect of it that you might notice right away is how much rock and blues are on it. The single “Set Me Free” is distinctly reggae, but that does not signal a reggae album. Instead, it’s more an exception to the rule. This is a large collection of songs from the New Jersey songwriter/musician, which has been re-edited and mastered by Jason Dermer. It mostly contains the kind of rock music you’d expect to find on the East Coast, which has – of course – given us the likes of Bruce Springsteen and his star sideman, Clarence Clemons.
The album kicks off with “Ain’t Easy,” which is a rollicking blues-rock track that finds Boris singing it in a gruff, bluesy voice. “Kick Away The Blues,” which follows, is more of an upbeat number, and one that also features plenty of funky organ and guitar. It has the feel of classic ‘60s soul music in some places. It finds Boris singing it with plenty of natural feel. You get the sense that playing and singing this kind of music is nearly second nature to him. He doesn’t ‘choose’ to perform in this style; rather, it just comes out of him as easily as normal conversation. Put simply, he speaks/sings the blues, the way some folks in various regions speak with an accent. This is his artistic accent, if you will.
https://open.spotify.com/album/4HOpz67uAeFDwnbSaz1JfL
There is plenty of mean guitar running throughout this album. Sure, there are rhythmic bass and drum parts, as well as organ/keyboards in places, but electric guitar is the primary sound heard throughout the recording. Some of the more notable songs on the album are “Set Me Free,” as well as “Shotgun Mamma,” which incorporates group vocals and a jazzy swing rhythm. These exceptions don’t sound out of place, but instead add variety to the overall presentation.
Most of us likely recoil at the prospect of listening to an especially long album, such as this one. It’s a little like reading a particularly long book. It just looks like a huge task. However, with music this enjoyable, it doesn’t feel like work at all. Joe Boris has a whole lot of music in him; more than a typical 10-15 track album can contain. Like a really good jazz or blues concert, Boris gets going well, and doesn’t seem to want to stop. You may not want him to stop, either. Especially when he throws in a steel-guitar colored inclusion, like “What You Find,” which adds just a touch of country music to the big collection of sounds. Anthology is no misnomer, and it’s also well worth investigating.
ONLINE:
https://j-boris.com/
https://www.facebook.com/JoeBorisMusic
https://www.instagram.com/joe_boris_/
----------
DANCING ABOUT ARCHITECTURE
https://dancing-about-architecture.com/anthology-joe-boris-reviewed-by-dave-franklin/
They say you can tell a lot about someone by the company they keep. If true, then the fact that Joe Boris has played and sung alongside such luminaries as Clarence Clemons, Michael Falzarano from Hot Tuna, The Band’s Garth Hudson and Buddy Cage of New Riders of the Purple Sage fame speaks volumes about his popularity and prowess.
But you don’t have to take my word for it; with the release of his double album retrospective, aptly entitled Anthology, you can see just what all the fuss is about. And if, like me, your first taste of Joe was through the slinky and ska-infused Set Me Free, this album will be a revelation.
There is pure retro electric blues with Kicking Away the Blues, lilting country rock courtesy of the gorgeous and understated Oklahoma, slow and incendiary, psychedelic guitar workouts in the shape of Time on the Run and the funkiest of southern rock on Year of The Locust.
And on the second disc, oh yes, this is a double album weighing in at 30 tracks; there are several live picks which prove, if proof were even needed, that Joe Boris can cut it live as readily as he can commit to a studio recording.
It’s a masterful release, one that has a roots vibe at its core but then uses such a sonic vehicle to drive through blues boundaries and country demarcations, funky fences through rock realms and even take a spin in more island vibes and acoustic hangouts. Genres are just signposts that the music passes on its way to fantastic sonic destinations.
And whilst the building blocks might be familiar, as always, it is the sonic architecture that the artists build with those materials which count. The sonic architecture that Joe Boris builds over this extensive and rewarding sonic collection is nothing short of extraordinary.
----------
COYOTE MUSIC
https://www.coyotemusic.com/reviews/anthology
Joe Boris Releases a Comprehensive 'Anthology' of His Works from the 90s through Present Day
Anthology is one helluva album. Songwriter/Guitarist Joe Boris has assembled this 2-Disc collection of his recordings covering the past 3 or so decades, and it's a formidable beast of musicianship. Mentioned in the book Jambands: The Complete Guide to the Players, Music & Scene by Dean Budnick, Joe Boris cut his teeth in the legendary New Jersey music scene. What he's got with Anthology is the fruit of his labor, certainly a labor of love.
Stylistically, Anthology displays all Boris has got. A number of tracks feature blistering guitar work that drops all sorts of influences. With songs like "Ain't Easy" and "Bill Dawson" it's clear as day that there's an Allman Brothers inspiration in the tone and harmonies. But it's not just a head-nod to the legends. The execution is stellar. Boris has had some killer lineups over the years.
Another strong presences on the album is a revisiting of a funky Southern Rock groove similar to what Stevie Ray Vaughn often riffed on. "Kick Away the Blues" is a solid example of this vibe, the type that brings a crowd to their feet, dancing and lifting their drinks in admiration of the moment.
Then there's the Asbury Park influence. "Hard to Find the Time" brings in the Hammond B3 real thick and luscious. You can feel the E Street and Southside Johnny presence in the room.
Anthology leans harder at times, with the edgy "Copperhead Well," and sits back with more reflective moments like "Trials & Tribulations" drifting through its changes. Throw on "Trials & Tribulations" now and close your eyes. You can clearly envision sitting in an open-air venue with 12-minute version of this song, rich in its vocal harmony, drawn-out Santana-esque guitar solos, and gorgeous piano interludes. The light breeze drawing strains of all sorts of friendly fragrances filling the air.
Opening Disc 2 is "High as Heaven," an intense ballad blend of some Skynyrd influence featuring another scorching guitar solo that could be dropped seamlessly into Carlos Santana Live. It's not hard to believe that he's played on some pretty high profile bills over the years--according to j-boris.com he's shared bills with the likes of Bob Weir & Ratdog, Warren Haynes, Mickey Hart, Hot Tuna, Dickey Betts and Great Southern, MOE, Robert Randolph & The Family Band, Dark Star Orchestra, Ekoostik Hookah, Strangefolk, Devon Allman and many others. Boris would be the early band that has the crowd going nuts well before the headliner takes the stage.
Late on Disc 2 you run into the string of live tracks: "Jolene," "Damn Temptation," "Disarrayed" and "Salinas" place you in the audience of these shows. Again, take a listen and you're basically transported into the crowd watching Joe and the band do their thing. Impressive as hell, really.
Joe talked a bit on his YouTube channel about his inspiration for some of the songs comprising his Anthology. It's certainly worth your time to stream and even well worth a purchase to help support an artist who's been right there for years alongside some of our all time faves.
~ "Set Me Free" Single Campaign ~
We're a few weeks in on the "Set Me Free" single campaign and the reviews are starting to pop up online! Woot! I got a kick out of the nods to The Eagles, Bob Marley, Santana and Frampton. There are a lot of great pull-quotes in here including a few of my personal favorite lines:
"The song builds towards a phenomenal guitar solo, echoing the signature style of Joe Walsh from The Eagles. This homage to classic rock, combined with reggae elements and spiritual lyrics, crafts "Set Me Free" into a beautifully balanced tapestry of diverse influences."
"[Boris] reminds the listener of a younger take on the likes of Carlos Santana"
"[Joe Boris] brings together reggae grooves, rock muscle, trippy six-string salvos and just the right amount of louche and loose, sunshine vibes."
"Reggae music sounds so darn good whenever it’s done correctly, and with “Set Me Free,” Boris gets the groove just right."
"With its unique blend of musical genius and poignant storytelling, Boris effortlessly captures the essence of life’s struggles and triumphs."
"With "Set Me Free," Joe Boris indeed frees himself from genre limitations and expectations, presenting a song that's as daring and unpredictable as it is irresistibly engaging."
"['Set Me Free'] harmoniously fuses the epic-yet-chill energy of Sublime with a spiritual depth echoing traditional Rastafarian reggae. This vibing anthem conceals an unexpected depth beneath its feel-good surface.
"The raw authenticity of Boris’s voice adds a layer of depth to this captivating piece."
Kudos and congrats, and more soon!
Cheers,Grant
----------DANCING ABOUT ARCHITECTUREhttps://dancing-about-architecture.com/set-me-free-joe-boris-reviewed-by-dave-franklin/
Although we have seen Joe Boris adopt the guise of everything from foot-on-the-moniter rocker to deft blues player and from psychedelic guitar wielder to soulful soloist, Set Me Free sees him in altogether new territory. As he celebrates the power of “the herb,” he brings together reggae grooves, rock muscle, trippy six-string salvos and just the right amount of louche and loose, sunshine vibes.
Coming from a background of free-form and jamming, notably leading One Eyed Jack to success with his incendiary stage presence and well-crafted songs, it fits that here at least, he reminds the listener of a younger take on the likes of Carlos Santana, a player who has always been prone to musical flights of fancy within the loose form of the jam band environment.
Anthology, the album from which this is taken, is a masterful collection of sounds and styles and Set Me Free is an example of just one of the many genres and jams, forms and formulas, sonic seductions and musical masterstrokes to be found within. Buy it now.
----------WARLOCK ASYLUMhttps://warlockasyluminternationalnews.com/2023/07/08/set-me-free-by-joe-boris/
Prepare to be captivated by the soulful melodies and thought-provoking lyrics of “Set Me Free” by Joe Boris. This mesmerizing song takes you on a journey through a symphony of emotions, leaving you yearning for more. With its unique blend of musical genius and poignant storytelling, Boris effortlessly captures the essence of life’s struggles and triumphs.
As the enchanting reggae fusion fills the air, you’ll find yourself transported to a world where every line resonates deep within your soul. The raw authenticity of Boris’s voice adds a layer of depth to this captivating piece. It’s impossible not to get lost in his powerful delivery, each word carefully crafted to evoke genuine emotion.
“Set Me Free” delves into themes that are both personal and universally relatable. This song talks about the joy of casting away society’s rules and exploring self-discovery with cannabis.. Boris’ lyrics and electric guitar will captivate you.
ONLINE:http://j-boris.comhttps://www.facebook.com/JoeBorisMusichttps://www.instagram.com/joe_boris_
----------SKOPE MAGAZINEhttps://skopemag.com/2023/07/03/joe-boris-new-single-set-me-free
At first glance, the song title to Joe Boris’ single “Set Me Free” reads like a cry for release some oppression or other. It’s a demand for immediate change, one might gather. Perhaps, even a command for the same. Then when the music starts, with its loping reggae groove, you (the listener) are set up for this brand new social/political anthem. But no, this is not a cover of a Bob Marley rant, or even one inspired by his music. (Well, it could be inspired by the practices of Marley’s Rastafarian religious beliefs). The song is, instead, a musical/lyrical request for some weed to smoke, instead. Rastafarians are known to smoke pot as part of their religious practices. More accurately, Boris’ single is a love song for marijuana.
The title is not the sound of Boris demanding freedom from his captures. Instead, it is a description of how smoking marijuana makes Boris feel. It ‘sets him free’ whenever he’s getting high. On the one hand, the song’s lyric expresses Boris’ feelings about the smokable plant. However, musically, it is a five-minute track that allows Boris to stretch out and express his strong guitar skills. It includes an extensive electric guitar solo within it, as well as plenty of wonderful electric guitar rhythm.
The song’s style, speaking again about Bob Marley, is reggae. It rolls to a gently rocking groove. In addition to its guitar sounds, it also includes roaming bass and steady drumming. Much like Marley’s Wailers, there are also female backing vocalists mirroring Boris’ “Give me some ganja” chorus lines.
Boris has been on the East Coast music scene since the ‘90s and moved in circles that have included luminaries like Clarence Clemons and Garth Hudson. For someone who is now a mature adult (at least in age), the words to this song sure come off simplistic and innocent. This tribute to the way smoking pot makes Boris feel could just have just as easily come from a junior high student. In other words, Boris doesn’t make a compelling argument for, say, the legalization of pot, in places where it is still illegal. Boris says he loves this plant so much, that when he dies, he wants those he’s survived by to, “Bury me in a ganja field ten feet high.” Unless attitudes about drugs change radically and rapidly between now and the time he passes on, he’s likely not going to receive this wish. If the ganja is at least ten feet high, his tombstone would probably need to be eleven feet tall in order to be seen above all the ganja plants. But then, we’re probably overthinking this scenario.
ONLINE:http://j-boris.comhttps://www.facebook.com/JoeBorisMusichttps://www.instagram.com/joe_boris_
On just a musical level, though, this is an enjoyable song. Reggae music sounds so darn good whenever it’s done correctly, and with “Set Me Free,” Boris gets the groove just right. Boris is not going to win any downtrodden individuals their freedom with this song. Instead, he’s given himself the opportunity to tell his listeners exactly how he feels about toking on his favorite substance. He calls this stuff heavenly weed, and he clearly loves singing its praises with this sweet leaf of a track.
----------MUSIC FARMER 5https://www.musicfarmer5.com/post/joe-boris-set-me-free
In the vibrant panorama of the contemporary reggae scene, Joe Boris emerges, solidifying his presence as a dynamic force with his single, "Set Me Free." The track harmoniously fuses the epic-yet-chill energy of Sublime with a spiritual depth echoing traditional Rastafarian reggae. This vibing anthem conceals an unexpected depth beneath its feel-good surface.
"Set Me Free" seizes the listener's attention right from the opening, with a rainstick conjuring an aural spectacle, succeeded by a playful array of stereo-play guitars and vivacious bass lines that dart between the left and right audio channels. Boris's talent for crafting captivating soundscapes is evident in the leisurely yet intoxicating aura of the song.
Joe Boris' vocal shines as the centerpiece of the track, resonating with a fresh and captivating allure. As the song progresses, his voice is augmented by a talkbox effect, evoking a powerful nostalgia reminiscent of Peter Frampton's soul-rock innovation. Yet Boris also carves a modern and unique niche within this tradition, establishing "Set Me Free" as a noteworthy contemporary classic.
Adding an ethereal dimension is a captivating female vocal that harmonizes with Boris's own, creating a mesmerizing echo to the lyrical line, “Gimme some Ganja.” This profound musical dialogue enhances the song's spiritual core, adding depth and fascination.
The song builds towards a phenomenal guitar solo, echoing the signature style of Joe Walsh from The Eagles. This homage to classic rock, combined with reggae elements and spiritual lyrics, crafts "Set Me Free" into a beautifully balanced tapestry of diverse influences.
Boris' distinguished career, performing alongside the likes of Clarence Clemons, Michael Falzarano, Garth Hudson, and Buddy Cage, explains why "Set Me Free" blends the finest of classic rock and contemporary innovation. His influential role in the East Coast's jam band scene is reflected in the expansive, psychedelic soundscapes that define the song. His lyrical prowess, echoing the heartfelt narratives of Bob Dylan, breathes substance into the song's seemingly simplistic theme.
At its heart, "Set Me Free" is a heartfelt homage to marijuana, extolling the pleasure and liberation it offers. Its guileless appreciation of the plant forms an invigorating contrast to the intricate musical layers. While the song eschews political arguments for legalization, its joyous celebration of marijuana stands as a compelling statement in itself.
"Set Me Free" infuses elements of fun, enchantment, and laid-back rock 'n' roll, aligning with the current trend of nostalgia for the music of the past. It respects its musical forebears while carving its unique groove in the musical landscape. With "Set Me Free," Joe Boris indeed frees himself from genre limitations and expectations, presenting a song that's as daring and unpredictable as it is irresistibly engaging.
Website: http://j-boris.comSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/011179gSBfQ3YvUKri2WED?si=7c9ba0bde6ae4c8aFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/JoeBorisMusicInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/joe_boris_
"The song builds towards a phenomenal guitar solo, echoing the signature style of Joe Walsh from The Eagles. This homage to classic rock, combined with reggae elements and spiritual lyrics, crafts "Set Me Free" into a beautifully balanced tapestry of diverse influences."
"[Boris] reminds the listener of a younger take on the likes of Carlos Santana"
"[Joe Boris] brings together reggae grooves, rock muscle, trippy six-string salvos and just the right amount of louche and loose, sunshine vibes."
"Reggae music sounds so darn good whenever it’s done correctly, and with “Set Me Free,” Boris gets the groove just right."
"With its unique blend of musical genius and poignant storytelling, Boris effortlessly captures the essence of life’s struggles and triumphs."
"With "Set Me Free," Joe Boris indeed frees himself from genre limitations and expectations, presenting a song that's as daring and unpredictable as it is irresistibly engaging."
"['Set Me Free'] harmoniously fuses the epic-yet-chill energy of Sublime with a spiritual depth echoing traditional Rastafarian reggae. This vibing anthem conceals an unexpected depth beneath its feel-good surface.
"The raw authenticity of Boris’s voice adds a layer of depth to this captivating piece."
Kudos and congrats, and more soon!
Cheers,Grant
----------DANCING ABOUT ARCHITECTUREhttps://dancing-about-architecture.com/set-me-free-joe-boris-reviewed-by-dave-franklin/
Although we have seen Joe Boris adopt the guise of everything from foot-on-the-moniter rocker to deft blues player and from psychedelic guitar wielder to soulful soloist, Set Me Free sees him in altogether new territory. As he celebrates the power of “the herb,” he brings together reggae grooves, rock muscle, trippy six-string salvos and just the right amount of louche and loose, sunshine vibes.
Coming from a background of free-form and jamming, notably leading One Eyed Jack to success with his incendiary stage presence and well-crafted songs, it fits that here at least, he reminds the listener of a younger take on the likes of Carlos Santana, a player who has always been prone to musical flights of fancy within the loose form of the jam band environment.
Anthology, the album from which this is taken, is a masterful collection of sounds and styles and Set Me Free is an example of just one of the many genres and jams, forms and formulas, sonic seductions and musical masterstrokes to be found within. Buy it now.
----------WARLOCK ASYLUMhttps://warlockasyluminternationalnews.com/2023/07/08/set-me-free-by-joe-boris/
Prepare to be captivated by the soulful melodies and thought-provoking lyrics of “Set Me Free” by Joe Boris. This mesmerizing song takes you on a journey through a symphony of emotions, leaving you yearning for more. With its unique blend of musical genius and poignant storytelling, Boris effortlessly captures the essence of life’s struggles and triumphs.
As the enchanting reggae fusion fills the air, you’ll find yourself transported to a world where every line resonates deep within your soul. The raw authenticity of Boris’s voice adds a layer of depth to this captivating piece. It’s impossible not to get lost in his powerful delivery, each word carefully crafted to evoke genuine emotion.
“Set Me Free” delves into themes that are both personal and universally relatable. This song talks about the joy of casting away society’s rules and exploring self-discovery with cannabis.. Boris’ lyrics and electric guitar will captivate you.
ONLINE:http://j-boris.comhttps://www.facebook.com/JoeBorisMusichttps://www.instagram.com/joe_boris_
----------SKOPE MAGAZINEhttps://skopemag.com/2023/07/03/joe-boris-new-single-set-me-free
At first glance, the song title to Joe Boris’ single “Set Me Free” reads like a cry for release some oppression or other. It’s a demand for immediate change, one might gather. Perhaps, even a command for the same. Then when the music starts, with its loping reggae groove, you (the listener) are set up for this brand new social/political anthem. But no, this is not a cover of a Bob Marley rant, or even one inspired by his music. (Well, it could be inspired by the practices of Marley’s Rastafarian religious beliefs). The song is, instead, a musical/lyrical request for some weed to smoke, instead. Rastafarians are known to smoke pot as part of their religious practices. More accurately, Boris’ single is a love song for marijuana.
The title is not the sound of Boris demanding freedom from his captures. Instead, it is a description of how smoking marijuana makes Boris feel. It ‘sets him free’ whenever he’s getting high. On the one hand, the song’s lyric expresses Boris’ feelings about the smokable plant. However, musically, it is a five-minute track that allows Boris to stretch out and express his strong guitar skills. It includes an extensive electric guitar solo within it, as well as plenty of wonderful electric guitar rhythm.
The song’s style, speaking again about Bob Marley, is reggae. It rolls to a gently rocking groove. In addition to its guitar sounds, it also includes roaming bass and steady drumming. Much like Marley’s Wailers, there are also female backing vocalists mirroring Boris’ “Give me some ganja” chorus lines.
Boris has been on the East Coast music scene since the ‘90s and moved in circles that have included luminaries like Clarence Clemons and Garth Hudson. For someone who is now a mature adult (at least in age), the words to this song sure come off simplistic and innocent. This tribute to the way smoking pot makes Boris feel could just have just as easily come from a junior high student. In other words, Boris doesn’t make a compelling argument for, say, the legalization of pot, in places where it is still illegal. Boris says he loves this plant so much, that when he dies, he wants those he’s survived by to, “Bury me in a ganja field ten feet high.” Unless attitudes about drugs change radically and rapidly between now and the time he passes on, he’s likely not going to receive this wish. If the ganja is at least ten feet high, his tombstone would probably need to be eleven feet tall in order to be seen above all the ganja plants. But then, we’re probably overthinking this scenario.
ONLINE:http://j-boris.comhttps://www.facebook.com/JoeBorisMusichttps://www.instagram.com/joe_boris_
On just a musical level, though, this is an enjoyable song. Reggae music sounds so darn good whenever it’s done correctly, and with “Set Me Free,” Boris gets the groove just right. Boris is not going to win any downtrodden individuals their freedom with this song. Instead, he’s given himself the opportunity to tell his listeners exactly how he feels about toking on his favorite substance. He calls this stuff heavenly weed, and he clearly loves singing its praises with this sweet leaf of a track.
----------MUSIC FARMER 5https://www.musicfarmer5.com/post/joe-boris-set-me-free
In the vibrant panorama of the contemporary reggae scene, Joe Boris emerges, solidifying his presence as a dynamic force with his single, "Set Me Free." The track harmoniously fuses the epic-yet-chill energy of Sublime with a spiritual depth echoing traditional Rastafarian reggae. This vibing anthem conceals an unexpected depth beneath its feel-good surface.
"Set Me Free" seizes the listener's attention right from the opening, with a rainstick conjuring an aural spectacle, succeeded by a playful array of stereo-play guitars and vivacious bass lines that dart between the left and right audio channels. Boris's talent for crafting captivating soundscapes is evident in the leisurely yet intoxicating aura of the song.
Joe Boris' vocal shines as the centerpiece of the track, resonating with a fresh and captivating allure. As the song progresses, his voice is augmented by a talkbox effect, evoking a powerful nostalgia reminiscent of Peter Frampton's soul-rock innovation. Yet Boris also carves a modern and unique niche within this tradition, establishing "Set Me Free" as a noteworthy contemporary classic.
Adding an ethereal dimension is a captivating female vocal that harmonizes with Boris's own, creating a mesmerizing echo to the lyrical line, “Gimme some Ganja.” This profound musical dialogue enhances the song's spiritual core, adding depth and fascination.
The song builds towards a phenomenal guitar solo, echoing the signature style of Joe Walsh from The Eagles. This homage to classic rock, combined with reggae elements and spiritual lyrics, crafts "Set Me Free" into a beautifully balanced tapestry of diverse influences.
Boris' distinguished career, performing alongside the likes of Clarence Clemons, Michael Falzarano, Garth Hudson, and Buddy Cage, explains why "Set Me Free" blends the finest of classic rock and contemporary innovation. His influential role in the East Coast's jam band scene is reflected in the expansive, psychedelic soundscapes that define the song. His lyrical prowess, echoing the heartfelt narratives of Bob Dylan, breathes substance into the song's seemingly simplistic theme.
At its heart, "Set Me Free" is a heartfelt homage to marijuana, extolling the pleasure and liberation it offers. Its guileless appreciation of the plant forms an invigorating contrast to the intricate musical layers. While the song eschews political arguments for legalization, its joyous celebration of marijuana stands as a compelling statement in itself.
"Set Me Free" infuses elements of fun, enchantment, and laid-back rock 'n' roll, aligning with the current trend of nostalgia for the music of the past. It respects its musical forebears while carving its unique groove in the musical landscape. With "Set Me Free," Joe Boris indeed frees himself from genre limitations and expectations, presenting a song that's as daring and unpredictable as it is irresistibly engaging.
Website: http://j-boris.comSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/011179gSBfQ3YvUKri2WED?si=7c9ba0bde6ae4c8aFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/JoeBorisMusicInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/joe_boris_
is now out digitally, streaming and on CD. This is a two Disc set of 30 original songs by New Jersey, Songwriter/Musician, Joe Boris performing with different musicians over the course of his recording career. All the music has been re-edited and mastered by Jason Dermer (Asbury Audio-Stone Pony Summer Stage).
This double CD Package is a solid complication of great lyrics and music that blends Classic Rock, Country, Americana and Jamband Genres. Available now on Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes, Amazon, Pandora and Deezer. Click on the CD for Preview of songs on Hear Now
