JAY-JAY JOHANSON ANTENNA ALBUM RCA, BMG RELEASE: SEPTEMBER 2, 2002 REVIEW: SEPTEMBER 12, 2002

It is no surprise that the truly unique figure Jay-Jay is interested in working on film scores and soundtracks. "Antenna" is made with delicate fingertip touch and incorporates this rare quality in his solo efforts. "Antenna" is somewhat reminiscent of Depeche Mode's "Exciter" with its carefully planned minimalistic, yet melodic, constructions.
This time, Mr Johanson has collaborated with German sound fetishists Funkstörung and it can be heard mostly in the slower more introverted tracks. We hear a spotless production and Jay-Jay's brittle singing over layers of electronics and powerful strings. The faster pieces, like "On the Radio" and "Deja Vu", were produced by Swede Martin Landquist, a k a Nåid, who has been involved in quite a few releases latetly, one being the latest A-ha album.
This mentioned balance between emotional, weird electro-funk-pop and more in-your-face, dynamic synthpop is very rewarding. In a way it pleases all senses. The lyrics, lifted from Jay-Jay's own diary notes, deal with usual themes like love, loss of love and general opinions on recent life experience.
Jay-Jay Johanson has sold a bunch of records in the world, especially in France and Italy. But the time has now come for the Swedes and the synthpop crowds to take him to their hearts. Just be prepared to give him some time. You'll be glad you did.

NIKLAS FORSBERG