Friday, March 14, 2014

Album Review: Sharon Corr goes classy 60's for "The Same Sun"

Andrea isn't the only Corr sister to revisit past favorites for a second solo release (see her 2011 covers album Lifelines). Sharon Corr takes on a classy 60's vibe for her latest album The Same Sun, which is gradually being released in different territories since its initial premiere in September of last year. The sophomore effort was only recently made available in the U.S. The nostalgic sound of the album is a welcome and fitting move for the former The Voice of Ireland coach, known for her classy and romantic persona.

From the very first seconds, the throwback direction is unmistakably spot on and continues as a strength to the album. Sharon's airy vocals play as a perfect token to that theme, as do the poetic lyrics, as they express images of romance, beaches, new realizations, time, and life changes. Indeed, the lyrics are a highlight of the album (Sharon takes complete songwriting credit on this outing, with only Mitchell Froom lending co-writing on "Take a Minute.") As a whole, the album actually seems reminiscent of a romantic film soundtrack.

However, the album suffers with a few of the slow songs near the end of the record when the production is stripped down and moves away from the lush 60's sound, which is a real pity when the majority of the album is thoroughly delightful and re-playable. This is not to say the songs aren't good, nor could they not match the rest of the album's concept. It would just take some work back at the drawing board to get them par with the rest of the album. As they are now, it is like we are hearing an unfinished product. Even, their current production works but not for this LP's concept. If it weren't for this shortcoming, the entire set would be a complete knockout, especially since we are not hearing new music revisit this sound.

Despite its occasional sound strip, The Same Sun really takes off and is alive through its 60's throwback. The album's rich sound is a solid return for the always classy Sharon Corr.

Standout Tracks include catching lead single "Take a Minute," truthful "We Could Be Lovers," call to full-conscious living "Full Circle," and sensually playful and lightly breezy "The Runaround."

Would I recommend it? Obviously, any Corrs fan would enjoy this set to tide them over in the absence of all The Corrs. There is plenty of original Corrs vibe here. Also, fans of easy-listening may take to the album, especially if they have 60's leanings.

I give The Same Sun 3 ½ out of 5 stars.



No comments:

Post a Comment