Jon Butcher – “Wishes” – An Out of Print Lost Classic

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Jon Butcher lays it all on the line in “Wishes,” an album that might just be the guitarist’s most soul-searching offering and an absolute artistic triumph.

The production, a collaborative effort between Butcher and Spencer Proffer, is nothing short of pristine, exuding elegance from every note. 

Here’s a songwriter who’s seized the reins of his destiny, aided and abetted by none other than Thom Gimbel, the man who’s lent his talents to rock behemoths Foreigner and Aerosmith, alongside his longtime rhythmic compadres Derek Blevins on drums and bassist Rob Jeffries.

These tracks are all Jon Butcher originals, save for one co-write, the mysteriously mono-monikered “A Little Bit of Magic,” a collaboration with the enigmatic Raun from the Pasha/Spencer Proffer stable, Isle of Man. 

“Living for Tomorrow” sets the tone right from the get-go, following the lead of the opening salvo, “Goodbye Saving Grace.”

Butcher’s vocals, robust and resolute, find perfect synergy with his guitar prowess, which finally steps out from the shadows to claim its rightful place. 

Here, musicianship takes a back seat to the songs and production, and it’s a welcomed shift — leave the flashy fretwork for the stage.

“Wishes” weaves a solid narrative through each track and etches its mark into the very grooves of the record. The old adage “If wishes were horses, then beggars would ride” gets a lyrical twist here:

“If wishes were horses…then dreamers would ride,” penned over and under a solitary portrait of Butcher on the inner sleeve. 

The sonic landscape is a varied one, and on “Holy War,” Butcher channels his inner Paul Rodgers, borrowing generously from the Firm’s playbook, a group that struck gold just two years before this 1987 gem.

“Holy War” takes aim at televangelists with pinpoint precision, including the likes of Jimmy Swaggart, Jerry Falwell, and Billy Graham.

The title track, “Wishes,” treads familiar ground for Butcher, paying homage to the musical spirit of Jimi Hendrix. A sublime composition, it draws heavily from “The Wind Cries Mary,” both in lyrics and melody, before gradually evolving into its own distinctive entity.

“Churinga” elegantly closes out side one, a creatively executed instrumental showcasing the band’s innate ability to groove.

The rhythmic journey continues onto side two with “Long Way Home,” a percussive-driven expedition complemented by Jon Butcher’s gritty guitar work.

“Show Me Some Emotion” transports us back to the earlier sounds of the Jon Butcher Axis, though now enhanced by superior production compared to their Polygram debut.

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“A Little Bit of Magic,” the aforementioned co-write, picks up the thread left dangling by “Wishes.” While its lyrical prowess may be the album’s soft spot, the song’s ascending guitar riffs evoke memories of Santana’s “She’s Not There” period, a decade prior.

This track had all the makings of a chart-topper, and it’s a shame it didn’t claim that throne. 

Likewise, “Angel Dressed in Blue” seamlessly blends elements of commercial artists from that era, elevating the album to an even higher echelon and showcasing Spencer Proffer’s prowess, building on the success of his earlier hit with Quiet Riot.

Rather than pounding your head against the wall, the music here is articulate and driven. “Partners in Crime” and “Prisoners of the Chain” add to the album’s dynamic energy, with the final track serving as a hard-hitting ballad that would’ve been an intriguing direction for Bad Company.

It’s almost as if that band were searching for a more contemporary sound. This track brings the curtain down on an impressive body of work by a journeyman artist, reshaping the formula that once brought him regional acclaim in the Boston area.

You can buy directly from Jon Butcher himself. Please support artists who make great music.

“Jon Butcher delivers a powerful and introspective set of songs on ‘Wishes.’  His soulful vocals and bluesy guitar work shine throughout, with tracks like ‘Holy War’ and ‘Wishes’ showcasing his ability to blend hard rock with a touch of introspection.” – AllMusic

 “‘Wishes’ is a compelling blend of hard rock, blues, and even a touch of pop sensibility. Butcher’s guitar playing is fiery and expressive, and his vocals are full of emotion.  The album is a hidden gem that deserves to be rediscovered by fans of classic rock with a soulful edge.” –  The Gear Page

 “With ‘Wishes,’ Jon Butcher proves he’s a master of crafting memorable rock songs with heart.  The album features strong melodies, powerful vocals, and impressive guitar work.  Highlights include the driving ‘Partners in Crime’ and the soulful ballad ‘Prisoners of the Chain.'” – Amazon Customer Review

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