Let’s Move
Self-Released, 2022
8/10
The sophomore album for families from the Arkansas native Katie Dwyer, we’re treated to 24 tracks that are as diverse as Broadway and The Beatles, where few genres are off limits and fun is present from beginning to end.
Early tracks like “Dance Dance Dance” bring powerful pop melodies in spades alongside Dwyer’s smooth pipes, and ‘60s influences are all over the playful “Gillie The Grasshopper”.
Deeper into the listen, the self-empowering anthem “I Am Me” is full of wise ideas that seem like they might emanate from the stage, while piano rockers like “Dino Stomp And Chomp” are populated by a lively energy that buzzes with warmth.
Much closer to the end, “Roly Poly Oly” is soaked in upbeat storytelling to accompany the thumping drums and frisky climate, and “Up, Up And Away” exits the listen on a dreamy note, where soft singing leads into jumpy keys before retreating back to calm.
Now a NYC resident, Dwyer began writing songs on piano at a very young age, and though her current work may be directed to the young ears, her influences from jazz, folk, pop, blues, and even Caribbean sounds ensure a charming, uplifting listen regardless of when you were born.
Travels well with: Kelli Welli- Robots Don’t Tell Jokes; Jenn Cleary- Happy Day