photo by Rebekah DeMaya of HEAD Photography
With a roots scene beginning to pick up steam in Regina there are a few artists to keep your eyes out for. The Bystanders, The Dustin Ritter Band and Jason Plumb & the Willing are a few to keep tabs on. Along with these artists there is a prominent solo artist here in Regina that goes by the name of JJ Voss. JJ is a enthusiastic roots rocker meets neo-traditionalist with a heartland feel that with a fan base growing rapidly.
The rural Saskatchewan in JJ comes across in his music that is blended with the influences of his hero's Johnny Cash and Waylon Jennings. Now if you have heard or seen JJ perform live you'll quickly take notice JJ cut his teeth on Steve Earle. Steve Earle, JJ's ultimate hero has an influence that definitely comes across in the songwriting and performance each night when JJ performs his heart out. JJ is first to admit his influences, however that being said what you are seeing while your eyes are transfixed on the stage is 100% JJ Voss. It's kind of the same sort of thing that can be equated with New Jersey band the Gaslight Anthem having been influenced by Bruce Springsteen. The Gaslight Anthem has done tours with Bruce, and man what a treat to would be to see a Steve Earle/JJ Voss show. Maybe one day we will see one.
When I first was introduced JJ's music he was playing bar rooms and has now quickly evolved playing large auditoriums, showcases in Nashville such as the "The Billy Block Show" back in March and has performed at Saskatchewan's world famous "Craven Country Jamboree" in 2005 and 2008. Not a bad resume for a man with a record only having been out for a little over a year.
If you don't have a copy of JJ's debut record "Hillbilly Storybook", do yourself a favour and pick up a copy via facebook, myspace, his official website or at Regina's Pump Roadhouse. "Hillbilly Storybook" is blue collar record jam packed with story tunes. The record begins with my personal favourite of JJ's originals "Innocent Man". When he performs this song he often tells the audience "This song may or may not be a true story and may or may not be about myself" which leaves me intently listening to the lyrics while tapping my feet. I have never asked JJ about the song but I encourage you to grab a copy of the record and come to a conclusion yourself. The next track is "Two Gold Teeth" another story tune followed by the laugh out loud number "Joanie the Jehovah Witness Stripper". I don't think I need to tell you much about "Joanie" but I will tell you that the first time I heard this song I was watching JJ at some Canada Day festivities in the Wascana Park a couple years back and when I realized what I was hearing and nearly wet myself.
Halfway though the record we get to a stunning original called "Holy Man" which JJ's objection to killing in the name of God in the name of religion. Approaching the end of the record is a dancey number "Nancy Sinatra" which features acclaimed country artist Duane Steele. Finally headlining the album is one last original "Above It All" which is probably the most traditional song on the record while still keeping in JJ's extremely well done storytelling vain.
I guess to describe "Hillbilly Storybook" would be to well... repeat the the title of this fantastic recording; it's cupboards stocked full of well written songs and talented musicians. I can also tell you that you will not be disappointed in the quality of sound either as JJ and the boys at Touchwood studios here in Regina did an incredible job to go along with excellent musicianship and phenomenal songwriting. All this along with the artwork and design courtesy of Rebekah DeMaya of HEAD Photography who also supplied the photo for this article makes a complete package. I do want to note that Rebekah's work can be seen at HEADfolio.com and I encourage you stop by and pay her a visit. She is another Saskatchewan artist practicing her own medium photography and has excellent work.
Again pick up a copy and enjoy. Next time you see JJ Voss out around town stop him and say hi. If mys suspicions are correct, one day in the not so distant future you may not as easily have the chance as he could really make a go of his passion. He has all the tools to do so. Make sure you check his live show too when you get a chance.
Cheers Rockers!
Be sure the to check out "Tuesday Night Troubadour" hosted by Mr. JJ Voss himself at Bocados Restaurant here in Regina.
Find JJ on Facebook
Have listen at Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/jjvoss1
Visit his official site: http://www.jjvoss.com/
HEAD Photography http://www.HEADfolio.com
J.J. Voss - "Holy Man"
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