Realization – JOHNNY RIVERS***

Hey Joe/Look To Your Soul/The Way We Live/Summer Rain/Whiter Shade Of Pale/Brother Where Are You/ Something Strange/What’s The Difference/Going Back To Big Sur/Positively 4th Street

Although Realization was Johnny Rivers most successful album, it comprises covers of songs, at a time when artistic credibility came through writing one's own material. Includes the US No. 14 hit single Summer Rain. (US:5)

"It's fairly obvious from the cover images of him with his facial hair and beads with peace symbols, that he cannot resist being influenced by the times in which he was living. Too bad these influences didn't carry over to his music as well. This is a marked improvement over it's predecessor, though still nothing to write home about. It's a mix of commercial male vocal pop, and acoustic driven folk/pop."

"Rivers manages to butcher songs by Procol Harum, Bob Dylan and Tim Rose and as always makes them bland, sappy and otherwise unappealing."

"This holds together incredibly well. The songs are not tarted up with trendy 60s sound effects, but are lusher takes on the beautiful written pop-rock that was River's master corner. If Realization is a step forward, that step is how well these tracks complement each other."

"I bought River's Realization in 1968 when it was first released. I was absolutely overwhelmed by the music, musicians and quality of production of this album. One of the finest compilations of music to ever come out of the 1960s."

"Johnny Rivers made this LP in '68 drawing for the most part on the California sound of the late sixties. The songs range from hard rock to ballads, backed by lush instrumentals in the style of Jimmy Webb. Rivers has a great, soothing voice full of emotion and gives weight and meaning to his interpretations. The songs weave together nicely, with interludes of music from childhood and simpler times, such as waves lapping the shore and marching band parades. This album is guaranteed to make you feel good."

"Summer Rain is an absolutely beautiful ballad. It resonates with power and is devoid of grandiose imagery that pollutes most love songs. Other songs, showcase Johnny's beautiful voice."