“Another Shot” is an album by John Guidroz. He’s the type of artist who can sound good with just a guitar and voice, but this album offers much more than that. The album is folk infused with elements of pop, rock, and country. I think it also fits into the singer/songwriter category. At the end of the day, this is simply great music that sounds professionally recorded.
I had a feeling I would enjoy the entire album after listening to the first song, “Another Shot,” which has a warm tune that feels like classic Americana in terms of the lyrics. He talks about alcohol and cleverly ties it in with a romantic relationship. The lyrics are original and unique, and I liked how he used metaphors. Guidroz has a warm, inviting voice that I found really easy on the ears—like an artist I could listen to all day and night without ear fatigue. “Running” floats effortlessly with very airy production.
You cannot hear any harsh frequencies here. It reminded me of laying your head down on a soft pillow and getting a good night’s rest. I’m not saying it made me sleepy, but it just felt very comforting. The mixing is superb as the keys and guitar meld effortlessly. “Laura” has a very cool melody. Similar to the previous songs, it exudes a sense of comfort and warmth. It’s a great place for Guidroz’s vocals to shine. He doesn’t strain his voice but puts enough intensity on it to give it some pressure. “Feature” has a subtle little groove. It’s got some hope, and I found myself moving along with this one.
His vocals are, again, wonderful to listen to, as are some of the additional lead guitar elements. “Jukebox” almost felt out of place, but I didn’t mind it. This is a very clear alt-country tune, and you get all the instruments associated with the genre, like lap steel guitar. Guidroz’s voice even sounds a little different on this song. “Sing With Me” starts with some sax that I loved. This is a truly exceptional song. It reminded me of being in a worship session on Sunday with a truly exceptional band. There are religious tones here within the music, but it felt like a rebirth. This might have been my favorite vocal on the album, and I loved the way certain sections were enhanced with harmonies.
Last up is “Unanswered Crimes,” which was a fine song to end the album with. It has mid-level energy and feels really reflective and somber with a hint of hope. I have to comment again on the mix. I loved that I was able to hear that slick bass line as well as the piano arpeggios. You can honestly just put the instrumental section of this song on a loop, and you will immediately feel a sense of well-being. Guidroz is a great singer, instrumentalist, and songwriter. I seriously enjoyed this album. “Another Shot” is a truly wonderful album with so many good songs. It goes by fast, making it compact and very repeat-worthy.
Garth Thomas