Release Date: 7th December 2009
Genre(s): Acoustic rock/blues

I had heard Jon Gomm’s song “Waterfall” several times live before the release of Don’t Panic, but I was speechless after hearing it open this mind-blowing album. It had been just under seven years since the release of the début album Hypertension, so it had been a long wait for this highly anticipated album to make it to the stores. Was it worth the wait? I definitely think so.

Bearing similar sounds to the likes of Nick Harper, Arto Lindsay and Erik Mongrain, Don’t Panic is a perfect demonstration of how acoustic music should be performed. From start to finish I was captivated by the blend of styles and skills presented on the album, with memorable songs such as the energetic blues-y rock number “Surrender”, the single-worthy love melodies of “Gloria” and the pretty and soothing sounds of “What’s Left For You?”.

As well as demonstrating fascinating musicianship and technique, the album features the voice of Gomm’s wife at the end of the album, which presents of nice outro to the journey we are taken through.

The self-production of the album gives off a deep atmospheric feel with each song, with an interesting use of techniques such as filters, distortion and surround panning in songs. Gomm has certainly surpassed himself with this new release to say the least.

It is plainly obvious that Jon has matured as both a musician and a producer since the last album, showing big potential, and will only get even more better over time. I won’t be surprised if this release went a long way to benefit Gomm’s success.

For more information, check out Jon Gomm’s websites:
Official Website
MySpace Page