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Boston-hailing ex-Modern Lover Jonathan Richman’s I, Jonathan was his fourth solo album, hailed as a masterpiece of lo-fi and a master class in songwriting.  Originally released in 1992 on Rounder Records, I, Jonathan now receives its first-ever vinyl reissue as part of a series celebrating the 50th anniversary of the label.  The new pressing arrived today on Craft Recordings.

Upon its release, the album brought the somewhat underground, offbeat artist to a new group of fans, joining a group of cult-like admirers of his quirky, ever-shifting music styles.  And one listen to I, Jonathan, proves there’s a lot to like.  The album opens with the early-’60s rock pastiche “Parties in the U.S.A.,” where he laments the passage of time, in particular the loss of the quintessentially American beach parties of the days of yore.  Other highlights include the funky “I Was Dancing in a Lesbian Bar,” a tale of letting go and letting music move you.  There’s the tribute to his hometown, “Twilight in Boston,” and a reflection on his music heroes, “Velvet Underground.”

For its vinyl reissue, Craft Recordings has pressed the album on standard black vinyl.  Exclusive merchandise bundles are available exclusively at the Rounder reissue collection via the Craft Recordings store.

Jonathan Richman, I, Jonathan (originally Rounder Records CD 9036, 1992 – reissued Rounder/Craft Recordings LP 0888072155534, 2020) (Amazon U.S. / Amazon U.K. / Amazon Canada / Your Local Record Shop)

Side A

1. Parties In The U.S.A.
2. Tandem Jump
3. You Can’t Talk To The Dude
4. Velvet Underground
5. I Was Dancing In The Lesbian Bar

Side B

1. Rooming House On Venice Beach
2. That Summer Feeling
3. Grunion Run
4. A Higher Power
5. Twilight In Boston