Album Review: I Wanna Be Free / Another Page by JeanPaul Vignon
Alright, let’s talk about this little gem from the vaults. JeanPaul Vignon’s I Wanna Be Free / Another Page is one of those albums that sneaks up on you. It’s folk with a dash of world and country vibes—simple but heartfelt. Released under MGM Records back in the day, it’s got that classic late '60s or early '70s charm (yeah, they were doing something right back then). Produced by Steve Duboff and arranged/conducted by Jimmy Wisner, the whole thing feels like a warm hug for your ears.
Now, I gotta say, two tracks stood out to me big time: “I Wanna Be Free” and “Another Page.” Let’s break ‘em down real quick.
“I Wanna Be Free” hits different. Like, you know when you’re stuck in traffic or stressing over bills, and suddenly this tune comes on? It’s not trying too hard—it’s just honest. The melody feels like it’s floating, carried by Vignon’s voice which has this raw, unpolished edge to it. You can tell he means every word. And Jimmy Wisner’s arrangement? Man, it adds this gentle swell of strings and piano that makes the song feel bigger than life without being all flashy. It’s the kind of track that sticks because it doesn’t scream for attention; it whispers instead.
Then there’s “Another Page,” which kinda flips the mood. If “I Wanna Be Free” is hopeful, this one feels reflective, maybe even a little bittersweet. There’s this understated guitar riff running through it, paired with lyrics that make you think about moving forward after some tough times. It’s not sad exactly, but more… nostalgic? Like flipping through an old photo album and remembering stuff you thought you forgot. That’s the magic here—it’s relatable without hitting you over the head with it.
What really ties these songs together is how human they feel. No auto-tune, no crazy production tricks—just good ol’ musicianship and storytelling. Plus, Jimmy Wisner’s touch as both arranger and conductor gives everything this polished-yet-authentic vibe. Hats off to Steve Duboff too for keeping things grounded.
So yeah, if you’re into folk music with a side of soul, give this album a spin. It won’t blow your mind with pyrotechnics or anything, but it might just remind you why we listen to music in the first place—to feel something.
Oh, and here’s a random thought to leave you with: listening to this record made me realize how much better coffee tastes when you pair it with vinyl. Weird, huh? But true. Go figure.
