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Sojourn is a Michigan based jazz rock band that returns with Once Again.  After hearing this album, it would very easy to imagine Sojourn on a double bill with very Michigander Ed Englerth.  The mix of blues, jazz, rock, and occasional funk on this record show Sojourn unafraid to takes risks musically.

Adam Parmenter's vocals travel the same territory as Mac Powell of Third Day, the aforementioned Englerth, Stevie Ray Vaughn, and just about every blues guitarist/singer you can think of.  This is especially evident on the first track, "Big Mouth," in which he reminds us how much trouble we find ourselves in because of ill-chosen or badly timed words.

"The River" is much like Third Day in its sound, while "Hope in the Presence" has more of a sing-songy, repetitive chorus.  There are six live tracks here as well, three of which are not covered elsewhere on the CD.  Of these, "Pride" is the standout, dealing with the failure than inevitably follow that trait.

Sojourn also nods to the music we grew up on, (at least if you're between 25 and 40) by covering "Bridge Over Troubled Water" (Simon & Garfunkel) and the Harry Chapin classic "Cat's in the Cradle" - neither measures up to the original, but it's not as if they belong in the loser's bracket of "Star Search," either.  Both stay faithful to the original, and should be seen as tribute rather than filler. "Bridge" could use some Garfinkel style backup vocals, though.

Overall, Sojourn would fit in well on a lot of adult alternative type radio stations, with enough classic rock, blues style to cross over there as well.  Once Again is a nice blend of influences that entertain as well as pointing toward God.  That, to me, is a pretty good definition of success.

Brian A. Smith
11 May 2003