Some plans that worked, some that definitely did not. 17 songs, 63 minutes.
16 originals, written with Fred Grittner, lyrics for one song, he also mastered the album
and played lead mando on our song, and Terry Lee Ransom, lyrics for one song
and all the background info for ‘The Ballad of Randall Ransom’.
And a lovely lullaby, an old German song written in the north-German dialect
that I translated into English. Music traditional (and sweet).Folk, Americana, Bluesrock and Jazz. Songs that might make you smile, laugh,
bring a tear to your eye and, as usual, a few weird ones.

Out 02 October. Available on www.janhauenstein.bandcamp.com, click the ‘Music Store’ button.
Streaming on all the usual platforms, either already or within the next ca. 10 days.
But only bandcamp does not totally rip off musicians…Physical cds – order here, or email janhauenstein@gmx.de

Pre-orders will be sent out asap. Full length prelistening on bandcamp,
I also added the lyrics and chords there.

I do like this one! Listen, enjoy, and, maybe, download or place an order for a physical cd.

A review by my friend Alf Storrud:

Hello Jan,

I have, finally, managed to structure my random notes from the first several listenings to PLANS – I am sorry about the delay, but I have to be in the right frame of mind in order to do the songs justice. I hope you’ll find something of value in here, although it is only random impressions and comments.

  1. A Nothing To Do Day

The music reminds me of Hot Club de France / Hot Club de Norvege (That is why I sent the CD) – Lovely up-tempo tune and tasteful, and really great guitar playing. I definitely share this sentiment, especially in recent times. An excellent opener for the album! (Very funny ending.)

  1. The Ballad Of Randall Ransom

Touching “slice of life” lyrics. With a somber mood, well supported by the music. A portrait of one of those people who never quite fit in. This one got me thinking of Knut Hamsun’s last novel “Ringen sluttet” (Something like “The Circle is Closed or “Full Circle””) where the hero starts several projects, is very successful for a while, and then lets everything go, again and again, because nothing really matters to him.

  1. Plans

Sad but true observations. Well crafted lyrics and a great groove, right up there with the best Dire Straits songs. I loved the electric guitar!

  1. Life’s Chocolate Core

A nice, tender song. Uncomplicated, affecting lyrics and a lilting, catchy melody. Again: Great Guitar work that adds an extra dimension to the song!

  1. Too Many People

A grim report from our times … and all times, sadly.

6.Unwillin’

A jazzy, bluesy tune with great vocal delivery and mandolin. Fred’s lyrics are suggestive – a lesson in “Less is more”

  1. An Old Bluesman

Another great up-tempo song to change the mood. As my musical heroes grow older I hope they can say the same as this guy.  I especially loved the funky rhythm and the fuzzy, freaky guitar at the end

  1. It Doesn’t Matter, It’s Alright

A jazzy masterpiece! A seducing, elegant melody with great piano and guitar. This rumination upon the fleeting nature of creativity is one of my favorites!

  1. In The Ground

Surely the catchiest song about cremation and death I’ve heard in a long time! Add a mordbidly elegant guitar solo and you have a sure hit … among eternally depressed souls at least.

  1. The Lord’s Empty Chair

So, that is the reason?! Sturdy guitar work on a song that puts Trump & Putin in “good” company!

  1. Peter’s My Name

One of the most “cinematic” songs on the album. I just love narrative songs that feel like novels – and this one is a classic. A chilly, but true portrait.

  1. Oh My

Another novel – or maybe a short story. Definitely cinematic. A song that gives us hope. Loved the piano and strings part

  1. Passion And Love

A quicker, snappier number just when we need it – I think we all have felt this ambivalence. Really cool guitar solo!

  1. She Doesn’t Have To Do It

A great love song for – and about – people who have lived some time. Great song. Another favorite from this album!

  1. Lazy

A return to the theme of the opening song. A really cool, relaxing song. Nice melody. “A busy mind needs a rest from time to time” INDEED! … Is this song about me   ?

  1. You Can Be Sure

Nice up tempo shuffle with poignant lyrics! Sadly very true. I loved the vocals and melody.

  1. Good Night

This lullaby is a perfect ending! Very nice strings in the instrumental parts.

 

Jan – These days it is great to have someone creating songs touching upon the human experience – Please keep them coming!

All the best

Alf

PS – The cover has me laughing out loud!