In recent years, critics have sometimes accused Jack Johnson of staying very within his comfort zone with his lovely, summery, nothing to worry about guitar songs. The Hawaiian-born singer doesn't seem to have taken much of that criticism when writing his eighth studio album. With minimal instrumental accompaniment, Johnson also sticks to his trusted concept on From Here To Now To You. He wrote the
… twelve signature JJ songs from his own Mango Tree Studio in Hawaii and in terms of style it all fits seamlessly with previous material. His work deserves appreciation, especially since his stories are largely autobiographical. On From Here To Now To You he also gives a pleasant glimpse into his life. For example, on Tape Deck it becomes clear that Johnson felt trapped in the funk band he used to be a part of and wanted to play punk, but the absolute highlight is the You Remind Me Of You written for his daughter. Johnson also does what he is good at at the age of eight and there is not much wrong with that. (BvdV)more