Sun King Rising’s album “Signs & Wonders,” released on October 1, 2022, is a meticulously crafted mosaic of Southern rock and soul that demands to be heard. This record is the second offering from John Blangero, operating under his professional moniker Sun King Rising, and it delves deeper into a world rich with southern lore, drenched in the varied sounds that define Southern musical tradition.

Musicality and Style

Blangero has described his musical output as a new wave of Southern rock and soul, and “Signs & Wonders” is true to this vision. The album interlaces the raw emotional grit of Southern rock with the smooth, deep pulse of soul music. The instrumentation is robust—featuring notable contributions like Ralph Guzzi’s horn arrangements and the solid backbone provided by George Elliott on bass and George Perilli on drums. Willie Ross and Steve Schuffert’s guitar work adds a crisp edge to the tracks, further elevating the album’s textured sound.

Lyrical Narrative

Each track on “Signs & Wonders” tells a part of a larger story, drawing heavily from the Southern Gothic literary tradition. Themes of sin and redemption, love and betrayal, and existential ponderings are all explored. The lyrics could be compared to a blend of William Faulkner’s narrative depth and Tennessee Williams’ dramatic flair, but set to music. Songs like “Bitter Waters Sweetened” and “Lanterns On The Levee” showcase Blangero’s prowess in weaving complex stories through his lyrics, often accompanied by a hauntingly beautiful melody.

Standout Tracks

• “Bitter Waters Sweetened” opens the album with a powerful narrative set against a backdrop of compelling orchestral arrangements, setting the tone for the album’s journey.
•  “No. 6 Magnolia Avenue” offers a more upbeat tempo with a catchy rhythm, complemented by a visually engaging music video that enhances the storytelling experience.
• “Anchorless” stands out as the longest track on the album, a poignant exploration of themes of loss and searching, underscored by a deeply resonant saxophone performance by Kenny Blake.

Production and Arrangement

The album was skillfully engineered by David Granati and mixed and mastered by Brian Foraker, ensuring that each song presents a polished yet authentic sound. The production choices respect the genre’s roots while also allowing for modern nuances that make the album accessible to a contemporary audience.

Artistic Vision and Reception

John Blangero’s dual expertise as a musician and a genetic scientist adds a unique depth to his music, perhaps lending a methodical approach to the creative process evident in the structured yet fluid compositions. “Signs & Wonders” has continued to build on the success of “Delta Tales,” likely resonating well with fans old and new, appreciating its rich lyrical content and masterful musical execution.

Overall, “Signs & Wonders” is an album that not only entertains but also provokes thought, encapsulating the essence of Southern rock and soul with every note and lyric. It’s a significant work that contributes richly to the narrative tradition in American music, offering a listening experience that is both profound and enjoyable.

John Blangero, who performs under the moniker Sun King Rising, is a multifaceted artist whose life and career are as intriguing as his music. His unique blend of Southern rock and soul is not just a musical style, but a reflection of his deep roots and diverse interests, ranging from his scientific career to his artistic endeavors.

John Blangero is a world-renowned genetic scientist, a profession that might seem at odds with his musical pursuits but actually complements his methodical approach to songwriting and production. His scientific work has significant implications in the field of genetics, particularly concerning complex diseases. Over the past several years, Blangero has also been involved in research related to the COVID-19 pandemic, contributing his expertise to global efforts in combating the virus.

Sun King Rising’s music career began to take shape alongside his scientific pursuits. He has managed to balance these two aspects of his life, allowing each to influence the other. His music, characterized by its rich narrative depth and complex arrangements, draws on the Southern culture and values he grew up with. His approach to music has been likened to the literary work of Southern writers such as William Faulkner, adding a narrative and thematic depth to his songs that is rarely seen in the music industry today.

Sun King Rising debuted with the album “Delta Tales” in 2020, which received considerable attention for its blend of soulful melodies and deep, storytelling lyrics. The success of his debut laid a strong foundation for his follow-up album, “Signs & Wonders,” released in 2022. His music has been well-received not just for its artistic quality but also for its authenticity and the way it resonates with listeners who appreciate music that spans genres and eras.

John Blangero’s work with other musicians has been a hallmark of his music career. He has collaborated with a host of talented artists and producers, creating a sound that is both traditional and innovative. His recording sessions often bring together musicians from various backgrounds, contributing to the rich, eclectic sound that defines Sun King Rising.

John Blangero, as Sun King Rising, continues to evolve as an artist, and his music remains a dynamic and evolving reflection of his life’s experiences, his heritage, and his dual career in science and music. His contribution to both fields highlights a remarkable life dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge and artistic expression.

Published by: Nelly Chavez