REVIEWS

 

ANTIMUSIC (Keavin Wiggins)

Music veteran Jeff Christie just released his new album Here And Now and to celebrate we asked him to tell us about the track One In A Million.
   Here is the story:
   "After a tough year of personal ups and downs and trying to fulfil some difficult deadlines, I upped and found myself nestled in a beautiful old hotel overlooking the sea in Italy, the first real holiday for some time.
   "I needed to unwind, relax, enjoy some sunshine, good food and wine. After a few days of this, the heat started to become a bit oppressive and one afternoon I wandered around inside of the hotel and discovered a grand piano in the corner of one of the lounge bars. The area was empty of people so I sat down and opened the lid to find it perfectly in tune and started tinkering.
   "Before long, and as usual, whenever I sit at a piano a few random notes or chords will often morph into some semblance of a tune and if I allow myself not to get distracted eventually a song emerges. Sometimes I work laterally and it may be a title that comes to mind first, especially if it hooks into the few notes that I'd already been doodling with. That's exactly how this song was born.
   "I had been thinking back on my life and the people that I was indebted to for either their love and support, or for showing me what the real meaning of a life well lived meant. What is it that transforms some people into great humanitarians that put others before self.
   "Is it a gene that we're born with or is it a gradual life journey that leads to a conscious decision to always try and do the right thing, without resentment but with generosity of spirit?
   "I was fortunate to know a couple of people like that in my own life experience. Letting my memories run for a while the words 'One in a Million, One of a Kind' leapt out and now my horse was out of the starting blocks.
   "I sat there for an hour or so and wrote down some words, by which time a few people including some lobster-red Brits drifted into the bar and I stopped for obvious reasons. Back in the room I probably finished most of the lyrics with the basic tune firmly fixed in my head. Over the next couple of days whenever that piano area was people-free, I'd go over it till I'd basically finished the song.
   "Back home I put down a basic notepad demo and when I got round to the actual recording, I worked out the feel with drums and bass and acoustic and with that foundation stone laid it was just a question of building the track up adding piano, Hammond organ and some more keyboard and then layering some guitar riffs to existing bass riffs.
   "Next up were the vocals. I like to first do a pilot vocal so I can see what harmonies and back-up vocals might work then I try and get a decent lead vocal.
   "Once that was in the bag, I tracked up the harmonies and left it alone for a few days without playing it because giving it some space allows listening again with fresh ears. I thought it might be fun to try and get a thunderclap sound onto the track around the same time as I sing thunder and lightning mid-section of the song, so I found a fairly decent 'thunder sound' on my keyboard and 'played' it in at the right moment and was surprised to see how good it sounded.
    "The only thing left was to get some kind of solo on the tail-out of the track and I really felt a sax solo would be ideal, so I got hold of Snake Davis who lives in Yorkshire and is a widely respected musician with an impressive CV. I had a couple of Facetime calls with him where I basically sang the solo I wanted and he played it back to me over the phone until he had it down.
   "He recorded it at his home and sent me the files and then we just slotted it into the rough mix and that was the track completed. It sounded great and then it was just about getting the right mix which I think I've got, as every time I listen there's nothing I would change.
   "Of course the thing about mixes is you can go on forever and at some point you've got to call a halt or you end up going down rabbit hole after rabbit hole.
   "I love working like this and building the track up bit by bit or sound by sound. It's like building a house: first you need a solid foundation which in this case and usually is tight drums and bass plus a piano or guitar to form the rhythm section, then comes next section of walls, floors and roof, i.e. the orchestrated instrumental arrangement and vocals, then finally the paint and furnishings: the mix and mastering process.
   "I don't work fast and like to mull over any given song and mix sometimes making changes along the way. For me the song is king and it deserves the best clothes I can dress it in."

 

---

 

FAMOUS TIMES (Khy Talara)

Here & Now marks a reflective and meaningful chapter in the career of an artist best known for his 1970 hit Yellow River.
   It brings with it a blend of Jeff Christie's signature classic rock style, filled with both nostalgia and new explorations. After selling over 30 million records and maintaining a long, storied career, his latest effort demonstrates a seasoned artist's perspective, blending his time-tested sound with fresh, contemporary ideas.
   At first glance, Here & Now reflects on common yet timeless human themes: resilience, nostalgia, societal divisions, and personal growth. Tracks like One in a Million and Ordinary People highlight Christie's ability to craft lyrics that speak to everyday experiences while embedding profound insights.
   In One in a Million, Christie weaves a story of uniqueness and belonging, using relatable imagery-"watching it turn, turn, turn"-to represent the constant ebb and flow of life. The chorus, repeating "one in a million, one of a kind," serves as a motivational anthem that resonates with the listener's journey for self-identity.
   Ordinary People, on the other hand, takes a broader, sociopolitical angle, tapping into the anxieties of the modern age. Its message of unity and the widening gap between societal classes echoes current concerns while also portraying Christie's sharp, worldly observations.
   The track feels conversational, presenting life as a journey with "a suitcase of dreams" as a companion. The inclusion of metaphorical references to traveling and train rides conjures a sense of movement, with the lyrics ultimately urging people to reflect on the divisions that shape the world today.
   One standout track, Driving Down to Memphis, channels Christie's ability to evoke vivid landscapes with music. It's a classic road-trip song steeped in Americana imagery, blending the rock 'n' roll spirit with a wistful dreamscape.
   The journey from "Memphis, Tennessee" to "Graceland" metaphorically signals the passing of time and the desire for freedom. The recurring chorus "Nothing I could believe, nothing that I could see / Nothing that you could take away, could stop me being free" points to a persistent optimism, even in moments of longing or uncertainty. Musically, the song taps into laid-back, country-tinged rock, with smooth rhythms that complement its thematic message of escape and reflection.
   On a more introspective note, Better By Now turns inward, focusing on the complexities of relationships and personal growth. It's here that Christie showcases his lyrical maturity, addressing the highs and lows of life with a partner: "When it's good, it's good, and when it's bad, we sharpen up our little knives."
   The song's vulnerability is evident, reflecting an understanding that comes only with experience and time. The realisation that "we should know better by now" reveals a deeper self-awareness, acknowledging the inevitable mistakes we make while striving for growth.
   Another thoughtful composition, Building Bridges, captures a theme of reconciliation and healing, with Christie urging people to "cross that great divide." With a focus on unity, this track feels particularly poignant in the current cultural climate, offering a hopeful vision for mending broken connections. Christie's conviction in the chorus - "It's only building bridges that can save us from ourselves" - resonates strongly as both a personal and collective call to action.
   Throughout Here & Now, Christie's distinct voice remains the guiding force. His vocals carry the weight of decades of experience, alternating between melodic tenderness and confident resilience.    The album's production stays grounded in rock's traditional roots, with rich guitar work, steady percussion, and layered harmonies, while occasional flashes of more contemporary stylings add a modern polish.
   In sum, Here & Now encapsulates Jeff Christie's enduring ability to speak to the universal experiences of his listeners. Through poignant lyrics, a blend of rock and folk elements, and an overarching message of hope and resilience, Christie reminds us that, no matter how much time passes, music remains a timeless force of connection.
   For fans both old and new, Here & Now is not only a celebration of a prolific career but also a heartfelt, thought-provoking journey through the present.

 

---

MUSIC CROWNS (Lauren Chavez)

Jeff Christie returns with One in a Million, a single that resonates with the depth and maturity expected from an artist of his calibre.
   This track, infused with reflective lyrics and a melodious arrangement, offers a rejuvenating dive into the essence of self-discovery and appreciation of life's mentors.
   From the first note, Christie's familiar tonal warmth envelops the listener. The song begins with a gentle piano that sets a reflective mood, soon accompanied by a robust and well-synchroniSed rhythm section of drums and bass that provides a solid foundation. The addition of the Hammond organ and layered guitar riffs enriches the texture, enhancing the song's emotional reach without overwhelming Christie's heartfelt vocal delivery.
   Lyrically, One in a Million navigates through themes of wisdom, humility, and the human condition. The chorus - "One in a million, one of a kind - is both an homage to unique individuals who have made impactful differences and a contemplative look at Christie's personal journey.
   The verses weave stories of growth, challenges, and the ever-present human flaws, encapsulated brilliantly with the line "thunder and lightning made fools of us all".
   A standout moment in the track is the mid-section where Christie integrates a thunderclap sound effect - a creative stroke that adds a dramatic punch aligning perfectly with the lyrical mention of thunder and lightning. This element not only showcases his attention to detail but also enhances the song's atmospheric depth.
   The decision to incorporate a saxophone solo towards the track's conclusion proves to be a masterstroke. The soulful saxophone, played by Snake Davis, adds a layer of richness to the arrangement, ensuring the song's climax is as stirring as its message.
   The production of One in a Million is polished, with each element finely tuned to contribute to a wholesome listening experience. Christie's approach to letting the song mature over time before finalising the mix is evident, as every component feels necessary and in its rightful place.
   Overall, Jeff Christie's One in a Million is a profound and beautifully crafted song that stands out in his repertoire. It's a musical exploration of life's rare, impactful moments and the people who make them memorable.
   For fans and new listeners alike, this track is a testament to Christie's enduring talent and his ability to connect deeply with his audience through music.

 

---

 

LOS ANGELES WIRE (Martin De Juan)

Jeff Christie's Here & Now feels like a poignant testament to a career that has spanned over five decades, with this 2024 release offering both a nod to his storied past and a fresh take on the modern-day soundscape.
   Famous for his 1970 megahit Yellow River, Christie has long been associated with a pop-rock sensibility that mixed catchy hooks with a certain nostalgic warmth. However, Here & Now seeks to expand that legacy, blending classic rock structures with contemporary elements, all while maintaining the timeless, evocative lyricism that has always defined his songwriting.
   The album's first single, One in a Million, immediately sets the tone, with its contemplative reflection on individuality and life's journey. The chorus is anthemic, its lyrics - "One in a million, one of a kind" - lingering in the listener's mind as a reminder of the optimism that permeates much of Christie's work.
   Musically, it fuses familiar guitar-driven melodies with a more modern production sheen, making it feel both comforting and current. There's a sense of grandiosity here, almost Springsteen-esque in its ambition, with big, soaring choruses that urge introspection.
   Ordinary People showcases Christie's knack for storytelling. This track stands out for its socio-political undercurrents, touching on themes of wealth disparity and societal divides.
   The line, "When the rich get richer, and the poor get poorer, there's an ever-widening divide," adds weight to the track's gentle, yet persistent folk-rock pulse.
   Its thoughtful commentary on the modern world feels very in line with the ethos of '70s singer-songwriters, but there's a slight bitterness in the lyrics, as if Christie has grown disillusioned with some aspects of the human condition. Musically, the track is reminiscent of Don McLean or even Paul Simon, marrying observational lyrics with warm, earthy instrumentation.
   One of the most striking tracks is Driving Down to Memphis, a breezy, rootsy ode to Americana that finds Christie tipping his hat to Elvis and the mythic status of Memphis, Tennessee. This song, with its easy-going, road-trip vibe, feels almost like a direct descendant of Yellow River - a song of escape and liberation.
   The driving rhythm and the imagery of dusty highways and blue horizons conjure a sense of freedom, evoking the spirit of classic road songs, from Tom Petty's Running Down a Dream to Bob Dylan's Highway 61 Revisited. The track carries a sense of both nostalgia and timelessness, making it one of the album's most accessible moments.
   The overarching theme of Here & Now is one of reflection. The lyrics consistently explore the passage of time, the lessons learned, and the dreams yet unfulfilled. Whether addressing personal struggles, societal issues, or the bittersweet nature of existence, Christie's songwriting remains engaging and sincere.
   His voice, though naturally weathered by time, still carries that distinct tone that made him a fixture of the early '70s pop-rock scene. There's a sense of resilience here, as if Christie is still searching for answers, still pushing forward despite the weight of his storied career.
   Critically, Here & Now will likely resonate with long-time fans who have followed Christie since his Christie band days. It's a continuation of the sound that made him famous, but with a more mature, reflective edge. While it doesn't reinvent the wheel, it shows a musician who has gracefully aged into his craft, offering a blend of old-school sensibility with just enough modern polish to keep things fresh.
   For fans of classic rock, or those who have followed Jeff Christie's journey, Here & Now serves as both a satisfying callback and a compelling statement of perseverance. Tracks like One in a Million and Driving Down to Memphis are standout moments that showcase his enduring talent for crafting catchy, meaningful songs.
   And while the album might not break new ground in terms of innovation, it solidifies Christie's place as a respected veteran still capable of delivering heartfelt, well-constructed music. In short, Here & Now is an album that proves Jeff Christie is still very much here - connected to his roots, but not confined by them.

 

---

POLYPHONIC PRESS

Jeff Christie is your classy jukebox junkie musician.
   You know that moment when you listen to a song and want to learn an instrument? All of Jeff's music sounds like that.
   The easygoing, charming personality shines through sheet music-and that's a tough thing to pull off.
   Fans knew that Jeff Christie had a three-course meal all prepped up. The album features some amazing groovy music, and the opening track, Drivin' Down to Memphis, just puts you in the mood for smelling gasoline.
   It is the quintessential road trip song, from the tempo to his visual poetry which he conjures with ease.
   Jeff Christie sings like living is second nature to him. He seems to be a personification of the melody.
   The number of layers that he has perfected in production is impressive. From the percussion to the floating harmonies, it comes together, well, like a song.
   Another one you must check out is One in a Million, but the collection is worth the obsession. Jeff Christie makes the wait worth it.

 

---

 

GROOVER CITY (Flav Gabry)

Here at Groover City, we listen to and write about what we like, in any genre, at almost any time. After more than 35 years in the field, it's still a privilege to discover audio gems in this ever-evolving musical rollercoaster. And Jeff Christie? Well, he's one of those gems, by far.
   Jeff Christie is back, and no, this isn't just a rehash of his 1970 hit Yellow River that once dominated charts in 26 countries. His new album, Here & Now, isn't a relic from the past. Seriously, this is a fresh chapter in a career that's spanned five decades.
   However, Jeff Christie isn't one to rest on past laurels. He's still here, still making music, and proving that rock stars don't retire quietly, they evolve. This album blends his signature sound with contemporary elements that are sure to attract both die-hard fans and a new generation of listeners.
   The pre-sale for Jeff Christie's new album Here & Now started in August, and let's just say the excitement has been palpable. Jeff's behind a career that boasts songwriting credits for icons like Elton John, R.E.M., and Cliff Richard. Not to mention rubbing shoulders with legends like Hendrix and Pink Floyd - you know, in fact this isn't just some nostalgia-fuelled album release. Jeff Christie is still in the game, and Here & Now is proof he's got plenty more to give.
   So, what can you expect from the album? Well, for one, it's a perfect blend of the old and new. There are those familiar Christie vibes in here. The ones that have carried his music through five decades.
   But there's also something fresh, something modern. It's like a master chef updating a classic dish: you still taste the original flavours, but there's a new zest, a contemporary flair that keeps you hooked. And for those wondering whether Christie still has what it takes - Here & Now is a resounding yes.
   Jeff could easily kick back and live off the success of Yellow River (a tune that sold over 30 million copies, by the way), but that's just not his style. Here & Now is a beacon of resilience, a declaration that Jeff Christie is as relevant today as he was in the heyday of rock. His impact on music and pop culture runs deep. Who else can claim a spot in the legendary Yellow Pages ad, after all? For me, it's obvious that this album just adds another layer to his legacy.
   One in a Million, the lead single from Here & Now, sums it up perfectly. It's a throwback to the classic Christie sound, but with a bold modern edge that lets you know he's still got something new to say. Just because this is not the man resting on his past success. This is an artist who's pushing forward, still challenging himself to evolve.
   At Groover City, we've seen trends come and go, watched artists rise and fall. And yet, discovering something new from a rock legend like Jeff Christie reminds us why we love this job. It's a rare treat when someone with his pedigree doesn't just keep up with the times but shapes them. His music is proof that great artistry doesn't have an expiration date. It just keeps getting better.
    Whether you're a long-time fan or someone who's just hearing the name Jeff Christie for the first time (seriously?), Here & Now deserves your attention. Because the man is living proof that true legends don't fade away, but they adapt, evolve, and continue to create.

 

---

 

ARTISTWEEKLY.COM (Holy Minoza)

Jeff Christie's single One in a Million is a reflective, emotionally resonant piece that showcases not only his songwriting talent but also his ability to transform personal experiences into universally relatable themes.
   The song, born out of a moment of quiet introspection during a holiday in Italy, delves into the qualities that make certain individuals stand out as truly exceptional human beings-those rare souls who seem to be "one in a million."
   The genesis of the track is as much a part of its charm as the final product. Christie found himself inspired while tinkering on a grand piano in an empty lounge bar, surrounded by the serene beauty of the Italian coastline.
   The idea for the song emerged from his reflections on life, gratitude, and the characteristics that define the great humanitarians he has known. It's a song about reverence, about recognising and honouring those who lead with love and selflessness, and the lyrical content reflects this deep sense of appreciation.
   Musically, One in a Million is built from a solid foundation of drums, bass, and acoustic elements, with layers added meticulously, much like the construction of a well-built house. The piano and Hammond organ provide a rich, warm bed of sound, over which Christie's vocals and guitar riffs soar. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the track, from the carefully constructed harmonies to the strategic use of a thunderclap sound that adds a dramatic touch during the song's midsection.
   The inclusion of a saxophone solo by the renowned musician Snake Davis is a masterstroke. Davis's solo adds a layer of sophistication and emotional depth to the track, complementing the song's introspective lyrics and reinforcing the melancholic yet hopeful mood.
   It's clear from the way Christie describes the recording process that he approached the song with a craftsman's precision, ensuring that every element served the song's overarching theme.
   Lyrically, the song is both introspective and philosophical. Lines like "One in a million, one of a kind, one of the chosen, leading the blind" evoke a sense of admiration for those who, through their actions and character, stand out from the crowd.
   The repetition of these lines reinforces the idea that such individuals are rare and precious, a theme that resonates deeply as the song unfolds. The lyrics also touch on the universal experiences of life-growth, learning, pride, and the realization that not all answers are as clear-cut as we might hope.
   There's a poignant recognition of the human condition, encapsulated in the line, "Most people like you and me, could be one in a million, one of a kind."
   One in a Million is a song that combines thoughtful, well-crafted lyrics with a richly textured musical arrangement. It's a testament to Christie's ability to draw from personal experience to create music that is both relatable and deeply moving. The song's structure, with its careful layering of instruments and vocals, mirrors the complexity of the themes it explores - how one becomes "one in a million" through a combination of innate qualities and life experiences.
   This single stands out not just for its musicality but for the sincerity and depth of its message. It invites listeners to reflect on the people in their own lives who might be "one in a million" and to appreciate the qualities that make these individuals truly special.
   It is more than just a song; it's a tribute to the human spirit, a celebration of those who inspire us to be better, and a reminder of the impact one person can have on the world.
   Rating: 9/10

---