DAVY JONES - “Just Me” - Hercules Records (DJ 0010)
“Just Me”, Davy Jones’ enjoyable, tastefully produced album of melodic songs, has been in the can for a year and a half. The release date had been pushed back countless times due to ongoing Monkee business since the VH-1 movie – which spurred on yet another Monkees resurgence and subsequent tour.
Jones makes his own creative statement here – with the coy reference the title suggests – with help from talented singer/songwriter/producer Johnny J. Blair. The tracks on “Just Me” fit gently into the AC format, without the excess gloss.
The lead track finds Jones inspired by fellow Monkee Michael Nesmith with the dreamy, laid-back “Hold Me Tight”. Although the lead track’s vocal is somewhat unassuming, the second cut sees the artist in theatrical rock mode, reminiscent of Styx’s Dennis DeYoung. The stirring “When You Tell Me That You Love Me” features the most lush arrangement of the album. The cuddly “I Wanna Be Me” would make a potent cover track for any of today’s “boy” bands – perhaps 98 Degrees (Nick Lachey is a Monkees fan). “My Love” surfaces next with an ELO influence in a lighthearted way.
One of the album’s best tracks is the gentle but poignant “Hurry Up, Slow Down”, a touching plea for a romantic visitation in these time-compressed days. The strong suit of “Just Me” is simplicity, and the reworking of “It’s Not Too Late” melds a delicate balance of spirituality with a classical feel – without sounding overblown.
Another lovely ballad, the sultry “I’m Still In Love”, recalls Paul McCartney’s “Bluebird” arrangement-wise, complete with baritone sax. One of “Just Me” ’s upbeat numbers, the reggae-style “If Only For One Moment” bounces along nicely, and “Oh What A Night” – the same song found on the Monkees’ 1996 “Justus” set – is given a techno feel. It is interesting to note that an instrumental version of “Night” from producer Blair’s solo album “Fire” (C-Jam 7770) topped an Australian chart earlier in the year.
“So Goes Love”, a previously unreleased Jones gem written during The Monkees’ heyday, is a step into the Medieval period akin to The Rolling Stones’ “Lady Jane”. In midstream “I Ain’t Gonna Love You No More” turns from a cello-serenading ode to grunge guitar rock – aided by a harpsicord! Overall, “Just Me” is pensive and modest and at the same time adventurous in a homespun way.
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