Johnny Hi-Fi: "Vicious Cycle of Promises & Apologies"
The band is Johnny Hi-Fi, and four songs into Vicious Cycle of Promises & Apologies, I’m loving it (and they're not even glam rock). I’m psyched about this album—long story as to why, but this album’s got a killer backstory that involves love, marriage (successful and otherwise), playing in front of 20,000 people in China, becoming a millionaire (and not), selling wine around the world, and learning a shitload about human nature.
As opposed to the circuitous routine suggested by the album's title, Johnny Hi-Fi's Vicious Cycle of Promises & Apologies is a spiritual exploration into self-awareness and emotional rebirth. Though the songs' inspiration may have been an exercise in cyclical frustration, these recordings capture youth, death, and an appreciation for the life lived in between.
"Home" is a major change—a major-chord-based anthem of hope and optimism.
It took Johnny Hi-Fi three years to complete Vicious Cycle of Promises & Apologies. In celebration, its original release was offered as a free download. Vicious Cycles has since moved to the major online stores, but continues to reward new fans who buy what is Johnny Hi-Fi's best album to date.