Sleep Through the Static

iTunes Review

For many, Jack Johnson’s musical world is a calming place, defined by the singer/songwriter’s whimsical insights and gently-syncopated guitar. But shadows invade even paradise, as Sleep Through the Static (2008) reveals. On the surface, Johnson sticks with the same easy-going ambiance that he’s maintained since Brushfire Fairytales — while electric guitars and keyboards play a bigger role this time, his familiar acoustic-centered sound predominates. Jack’s enduring (and endearing) fascination with small domestic details and ordinary moments are present as well. What’s new is a less-sunny lyric perspective, expressed in songs like the title track (an insomniac’s take on Iraq, among other things) and “They Do, They Don’t” (an ominous vision of social breakdown). Fatherhood has also matured his outlook and tunes like “Angel” convey the sweet ache of a lullaby. While the music here couldn’t be called aggressive, there’s an upturn in energy evident in “If I Had Eyes,” “Monsoon” and “What You Thought You Needed.” A bluesy mood colors the smoldering “Losing Keys,” while “Adrift” casually ambles into country terrain. Johnson hasn’t left his dreamy comfort zone behind on Sleep Through the Static, but he’s not rolling over and ignoring the bumps in the night, either.