Janiva Magness has built her reputation as an excellent rock and blues vocalist who mainly sings her own material. So it was a bit of a surprise to find that her new album is one of all cover songs. She did not travel far and wide to collect her material; instead, she picked 12 compositions by John Fogerty.
The songs of Sings John Fogerty/Change In The Weather were chosen wisely. The well-known hit songs intertwine with lesser-known material. The songs chosen also take on new depth and meanings due to a female being the lead singer, not to mention one with a soulful voice.
Magness has always been an interpreter of songs, whether the words are hers or those of someone else. “Lodi” is a song that just makes you smile. Her version is smoother than Creedence’s version. Sam Morrow’s added vocals are a nice touch. “Bad Moon Rising” is a little less ominous than the original; here, it is just a very good rock ‘n’ roll song. “Have You Ever Seen The Rain” is a poignant take that is very modern despite its age. “Fortunate Son” is still a searing protest song, this time with a woman as the lead.
“Someday Never Comes” has tempo changes, intense vocals, and a message of generational failure. “A Hundred And Ten In The Shade” proves once again that simple is best, and in this case, beautiful. “Blue Boy” is a joyous romp, while “Lookin’ Out My Back Door” is an album ending, live in the studio, jam session.
Sings John Fogerty/Change In The Weather is an imaginative and ultimately good stop in Janiva Magness’s musical journey. She has issued an album of music worth hearing.
