James J. Patterson to Write Liner Notes for New Country Rock Record

James J. Patterson, famed himself in the music world for his onstage-persona, Jimmy Pheromone, writes the liner notes for the new North Star Band album Then and Now. The North Star Band was formed in the 1970s by Patterson's erstwhile co-writer and co-performer Al Johnson (Al Pheromone). After recording two albums under the Patterson's management, the band went on a long hiatus from which they only recently returned. However, during this period, a third album was recorded but not released.

That recording sessions forms the bedrock of the reunited band's new double LP, Then and Now, which collects the previously unreleased album as well as 10 new songs in a genre the band calls "kick-ass country."

Fortunately, James J. Patterson remains connected with the project. But, instead of managing the band and booking shows, he plies a new talent to helping the boys soar: writing. Since his Jimmy Pheromone days, Patterson has released two books through ASP, a collection of essays (Bermuda Shorts) and a novel (Roughnecks). His newest project, Junk Shop Window, a collection of personal essays, is slated for release in 2023.

An article in the Washington Post details the history and regrouping of the band, and this article features an interview with band members while drawing heavily from Patterson's liner notes. You can find tour info on the band's website here.