Sun King Rising’s “One More Story to Tell” is a testament to John
Blangero’s multifaceted artistry, weaving a narrative as rich and
complex as the musical traditions he draws from. The song exemplifies a
seamless fusion of southern rock, country, and soul, mirroring the
cultural melange of Blangero’s own Texan roots enriched by his deep
musical and academic intellect.
Lyrically, the track offers a keen observation on the power of
storytelling, particularly within the context of personal charm and
manipulation. The lyrics “Metaphor and rhythm make you fair weak in the
knees / Promises and miracles and mudflat symphonies” illustrate the
protagonist’s ability to enchant and captivate, suggesting a seductive
use of his musical prowess. This portrayal is likely to resonate with
listeners familiar with the intoxicating effect of a well-crafted song
or tale, making it a strong lyrical point that underpins the song.
Musically, “One More Story to Tell” is anchored by standout performances
from its roster of musicians. Steve Schuffert’s guitar work, combined
with the rhythm section of George Elliott and George Perilli, provides a
robust backbone that complements the song’s thematic elements of charm
and persuasion. The inclusion of soulful backing vocals by Stevee
Wellons, Joy Brown, and Bernice Wilkerson adds a layer of richness and
depth, enhancing the overall emotive pull of the track.
The production, under Ace Acker, is polished, with David Granati’s
engineering ensuring that each musical element is crisply rendered,
while Brian Foraker’s mixing and mastering provide the final gloss that
makes the track radio-ready yet soulfully authentic.
“One More Story to Tell” positions itself as a musical exploration of
manipulation and charisma, encapsulated in a style that pays homage to
greats like Faulkner and Gershwin, with a nod to the soulful grit of
Muscle Shoals. It’s a piece that not only entertains but also invites
introspection on the stories we tell and the motives behind them, making
it a worthy addition to the oeuvre of Sun King Rising and a compelling
piece for any listener drawn to narrative depth and stylistic
sophistication.