John Doan: Press

"John Doan "Remembrance": Subtitled "Melodies from a Forgotten Era," John Doan weaves the songs of yesteryear into new tapestries of music which evoke the America of a hundred years ago,. Using melodies both familiar and unfamiliar as a starting point, he creates something fresh, yet reminiscent of a simpler time; his sources range from American folk tunes to classical works and parlor music of our great-grandparent's day, intertwined with his own compositions. This mix leads to some surprising and wonderful combinations: You'll recognize 'Clementine" as she walks down "The Street of Laredo"; both these two well-loved folk songs and 'Buffalo Gals" are the heart of "Gold in the Ground,' the nostalgic opening track. Other standouts include 'Remembering Greensleeves,' Doan's own rendition of this olde English tune; 'Pioneer Rose,' a tribute to the women who brought rose bushes in their covered wagons to plant in their new homesteads; & the lovely 'Wind in the Willows,' inspired by both Brahms and a mediation under a large willow tree. The liner notes are extensive and beautifully written, describing the sources and stories behind each of the pieces, and make a perfect companion to this haunting , heartfelt release. Doan's "Remembrance" is like a treasure chest of antique lace."

"Remembrance is a gorgeous album that Doan slipped out on his own label. He plays a lot of traditional tunes and standards, but rearranges them in a style similar to his Christmas album Wrapped In White. Melodies like "Greensleeves" and "Brahm's Lullaby" are extended out across his harp guitar and collections of antique instruments. Subtitled "Melodies from a Forgotten Era" Doan makes them come alive in arrangements that are both quaint and contemporary."

"The graceful sounds of the harp guitar evoke a simpler age, an age with the harshness edited out...A gentle disc for gentle souls."

"Remembrance is a warm, nostalgic album that serenades the listener with music inspired by a bygone era, beautifully given voice by the chiming tones of John Doan's harp guitar."

"Hearing this music, it's almost as if I can see only in sepia tones, memories enhanced by love and perserved by faith."