Following his collaboration with Allan MacLeod, Bill Bourne joined forces with Shannon Johnson to form the Alberta-based duo Bourne & Johnson. Bourne's rhythmic syncopated lyrics continue to dominate the tracks, with Johnson's engaging voice in harmony and her subtle fiddle playing taking the place of MacLeod's bagpipes. The result is highly effective. Bourne is engaging, as always, and Johnson's voice adds a new dimension to the delivery. Dear Madonna (1994) also shows another side of Bourne--thoughtful, introspective songs that contrast with his trademark upbeat dance songs.
Victory Train (1996) moves the duo up a notch, with the integration of their styles becoming more sure and expressive. The bluesy dance music is still a central focus, but Shannon Johnson's showcase cut, "Shannon's Tunes," is the album's highlight. Johnson's original fiddle compositions are driven to high energy, riding on bass and guitar accompaniment. Bourne continues to grow as a lyricist, as seen on cuts like "Victory Train," "Joey Marmalade's Farewell," and the catchy "Nothin' to do but Sing This Song." A first-rate recording.
Dear Madonna
1994 Rynde (CD-1502)Dance the Night Away; Here Is a Heart; Dear Madonna; Carnal Minded Men; Red Moon; Shinin' Mary & the Bad News Bears; Beer Belly Billy and Mary Laydown; Wildwood Flower; The Hobo Sunny Blue; Baggins; The Road to Tokyo; Gone Fishin' 52:11Victory Train
1996 Free Radio (FRCD 001)Shuffa' Bone Rhythm; The Mango Song; Sunday at the Shean's/The Blue Meadow/Apple Wine Sunshine/The Blacksmith's Hotfoot Boogie; Miles of Dreams; Pallet on Your Floor; Victory Train; Joey Marmalade's Farewell; Peace River; Like a Poor Boy; Your Amour Sitar; Follow the Drinkin' Gourd; Nothin' To Do but Sing This Song 64:49