"In 'Goodbye California' John Salem sets out for parts unknown. There’s a fresh and fearless aspect to his harmonic structures. To say that he may be strolling through Brian Wilson‘s neighborhood is no mean feat, and no small accomplishment.--"Dr. Bob" Bob Hartley (Lifelong musical co-conspirator)
“...new album Goodbye California is an epic journey of a musical motion picture movie of beautiful sound and wonderful words about travel found in the title track - as well as in other songs called Tomorrowland and On The Way To Somewhere.....’Lisette - I know I have no jet - but I bet I could fly you places that you've never been before.......’
It sounds like a lost gem collabo between Donald Fagen and Brian Wilson where Steely Dan meets The Beach Boys - both musically and lyrically......one of many centerpiece album jewels.
The album ends with yet another beautiful timeless message and melody - another masterpiece called You Never Know.....
...Goodbye California.....and Hello World, this is John Salem's amazing new album - that sounds like a long lost friend you just might find....on the way to somewhere...... “
“Wistful and sentimental songs from one of Wichita’s finest. Shades of both Randy Newman & Marker Starling underpinned by vintage electronic beats and dusty keys. A lovely album by an even lovelier guy.” - Shawn Lee American musician, producer, composer and co-founder of London-based duo Young Gun Silver Fox.
“The title track of John Salem’s Goodbye California immediately transports the listener to…the iconic imagery of a 1960s West Coast paradise…bittersweet lyrics about leaving one place for another. Lush background vocals evoke the spirit of Brian Wilson–era Beach Boys and The 5th Dimension without ever tipping into pastiche.” - Larry Chaney Former Nashville session guitarist. Current recording/touring guitarist with Edwin McCain,
"Seemingly inspired by a wide and eclectic range of musical influences—including The Beatles and Steely Dan—John Salem has crafted an album that travels effortlessly across time and temperament. There’s the perspective of an old soul here, paired with the pure, generous heart of a boy. His affection for his friends and the world around him runs through every track. Listening feels like taking yet another road trip with a man I’ve known forever—and I’m grateful for every mile." - Dianne Davidson has recorded five albums, toured as a member of Linda Ronstadt’s band, and has provided backing vocals for a host of major league performers such as B.B. King, Jimmy Buffet, Tammy Wynette, Barry Manilow and Leon Russell.
