By Tammy Reese

A magnificent blend of solo flute and orchestral music designed to suite any musical taste, Julie Johnson is quite the accomplished musician with a slew of professional experience under her belt. “Arrest” is the first solo album for this fluting dynamo and a very interesting collection of original composition pieces that have a flair all their own.  Johnson mixes contemporary and classical styles into a fine frenzy of idiosyncratic masterpieces.

Johnson explores the intricacies of the flute in an array of whimsical tracks that are sure to be a sweet and audible treat for any listener. Despite the lovely melodies of Johnson’s instrument, the first track of “Arrest” is enough to make listeners wonder if they did indeed put in the correct CD into their IPod or CD player. A man’s voice floods through the speakers to reveal a song that is both hideous and unbearable. Not to worry with just one click to the next song all becomes well and the sensory experience can once more commence.

“The Removed” is a dream-like ode that is calm, sincere and reflective. Each song on the album is organic, genius and intriguing, yet leaves one feeling as though they have experienced a variety of styles of music on one album. “Souvenir du Para” is an uplifting track that sounds similar to “Moonlight Sonata” and reminds me of new age Irish-born vocalist, Enya.  “Asobio a jato,” the eighth track is delicate duet between cello and flute, an endearing song that is fun and full of soul.

Johnson is a talent that is sure to become a greater artist than she already has become, I certainly wouldn’t be surprised to hear more of her very soon. Her multitude of awards, mixed with an overall talent for shattering perceptions of what is classical music can be heard in “Arrest” along with a passion for playing the flute and the extraordinary ability to share her talent and love of music with others.

Might Like:
Yo-Yo Ma, Laurel Zucker, Vanessa-Mae, Bond, Darren Hayes, Sarah Bauhan, Philippe Allain-Dupre and Enya.

www.julieflute.com

Filed under: Music Reviews