We awake to find Southworth opening up a new song bag. Falling into the ellipse amidst torn fabric, conspicuous birds, shadows in a looking glass; not only is everything here a sign – everything is a miracle. With miracles comes transformation, and consequently destruction, followed by release wherein tears distill the greatest miracle of all: a song.
Southworth is an archaeologist of love, sifting through relics and artifacts, the compost of this world’s memory, revealing stories that feel caught in slow motion, in mid-air, no beginnings or endings. Everything has always existed in this chaotic present; once distant stars now the altars of Tin Pan-Schubert Alley.
The songs of Miracle in the Night read like a stoic’s recital of an untraceable lieder. Carefully, each is a gradual, unfurling cadence. You may recognize his longtime band ‘The South Seas’ – gentle and steady, calm and restrained, playing just before dawn, a solstice cabaret in a megalithic tower. The endless red curtains from the Lynch dimension rise and fall around you.
His songs have been written for and/or covered by Canadian artists Buck 65, Sarah Slean, Martin Tielli, Hawksley Workman, Veda Hille, Jully Black and THOMAS. Produced by Jean Martin & John Southworth featuring The South Seas: Andrew Downing – acoustic bass, Craig Harley – piano, pump organ, Justin Haynes – acoustic guitar, Jean Martin – drums and John Southworth – vocals, piano, acoustic guitar