Categories: AlbumsMusic

Stirring Duo JOHNNYSWIM releases new album When The War Is Over

Los Angeles-based folk-pop duo JOHNNYSWIM unveiled their 5th album When The War Is Over on 7 February via the MR AND MRS SWIM LLC imprint. The extraordinary pair, consisting of Abner Ramirez and Amanda Sudano Ramirez – daughter of the legendary “Queen of Disco” Donna Summer – performed their potent track ‘Dopamine’ with US rapper/singer/actor Tobe Nwigwe on Jimmy Kimmel Live! mere days after the release of the album. The duo have amassed over 575 million global streams across platforms, and have showcased their spellbinding performances on prominent talk shows like The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, The Today Show, NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert, with a recent appearance on CBS Mornings, while they’re also set to perform on Jimmy Kimmel Live! on February 10th, 2025. Additionally, as part of their album tour, they will perform in London, UK on 20 May, at Scala with Yasmin Hass, and on 21 May in Amsterdam, Netherlands at Tolhuistuin.

Renowned for their captivating and unforgettable spirit, JOHNNYSWIM have received support from the likes of Rolling Stone, The New York Times, NPR and The Huffington Post to name a few. In their almost two decade career, JOHNNYSWIM have worked with the likes of Malay Ho who has produced for global superstars Lorde, Frank Ocean and Lewis Capaldi. Additionally, they’ve graced stages at festivals such as Railbird Festival, Bumbershoot, Firefly Music Festival and SunFest.

Originally from Nashville, Tennessee, JOHNNYSWIM formed in 2005, Abner and Amanda Sudano Ramirez met after a church service, and a few years later their paths crossed again at a songwriting workshop. The duo cite an array of musical influences such as Johnny Cash, Stevie Wonder and John Legend, while their distinct soundscape draws comparisons to Indie and Neo Soul heartthrobs such as Teddy Swims, with the rap passages delivered by Tobe Nwigwe in ‘Dopamine’ reminiscent of the smooth vocals of Childish Gambino.

The 11-track album delves into themes of vulnerability, reflection and self-realisation. When The War Is Over is a masterclass in wearing your heart on your sleeve and cultivating the strength to navigate life’s most challenging seasons. With honest, emotive songwriting at its core, the album features awe-inspiring instrumental arrangements dripping with intention and dexterity. The album was produced by Abner Ramirez, mixed by Raul Lopez, while Jonathan Grant Berlin took on the mastering duties.

The album focus song, ‘Dopamine’, features American rapper and singer Tobe Nwigwe. It opens with the precision and might of Tobe’s lyricism against the backdrop of a brawny drum beat, shaker and virtuous guitar licks. Amanda Sudano Ramirez and Abner’s vocals gently emerge, interlaced with warmth and pain; while their lyrics tell a story of growth and deep introspection. ‘Dopamine’ brilliantly captures the emotional highs and lows of trying times, through cascading guitar melodies, burly drums and extravagant choral vocal arrangements.