Album Review: Moods in Music by Joey Dunn
Joey Dunn’s Moods in Music is a warm, earthy journey through Folk, World, and Country vibes that feels like flipping through an old photo album. Released under the Canadian label ARI, this record brings together a tight-knit crew of musicians who clearly know how to vibe together. You’ve got Al Manning laying down some soulful guitar licks, Ken Stewart shaking up maracas and bongos like it’s nobody’s business, and Ron Zack holding down the rhythm section with finesse. Donald L. Scotland behind the engineering board ensures everything sounds crisp yet intimate—like you’re sitting right there in the studio.
The tracklist reads like a mixtape for wanderers and dreamers, blending timeless classics with a few surprises. Two tracks stand out as real earworms: “Georgia On My Mind” and “St. Louis Blues.”
“Georgia On My Mind,” a Hoagy Carmichael classic, gets a fresh coat of paint here. Dunn’s take leans into the folk side of things, letting Al Manning’s guitar do most of the talking. It’s not flashy or overdone; instead, it’s got this laid-back charm that makes you want to close your eyes and just soak it in. The melody feels familiar but somehow new, like running into an old friend wearing a cool hat. And when those subtle bongo beats sneak in? Pure magic.
Then there’s “St. Louis Blues,” which swings with a quiet confidence. This one sticks because it doesn’t try too hard—it lets the groove breathe. Ken Stewart’s percussion adds layers without overwhelming, while Dunn’s vocals carry just enough grit to remind you where the blues came from. There’s something about the way the whole band locks into this tune that feels almost hypnotic. By the end, you’ll find yourself humming along even if you didn’t mean to.
Other highlights include “Malaguena,” which dips its toes into fiery Spanish flair, and “Brazil,” a bossa nova nod that transports you straight to sun-soaked beaches. But honestly, every track has its own little personality quirks that make revisiting the album feel rewarding each time.
What strikes me most about Moods in Music isn’t just the talent on display—it’s the sense of camaraderie. These guys sound like they’re having fun, and that joy seeps into every note. Listening to this album feels less like consuming art and more like being invited to a cozy jam session among friends.
And hey, here’s a random thought: If albums were meals, Moods in Music would be comfort food served at a roadside diner somewhere between Toronto and Havana. It’s hearty, unpretentious, and leaves you feeling better than when you started. Give it a spin—you won’t regret it.
