Sharon & Bram And Friends
Casablanca Kids, 2019
8/10
Listen to Sharon & Bram And Friends
After a 20 year hiatus, Canada’s Sharon & Bram return with more of their family centered, positive and wise tunes on this clever and absolutely glorious comeback album.
“Everybody Talks” start with strong vocals from Sharon in a light jazz shuffle, as Bram’s pipes also end up entering the equation, and “The Colour Song”- an updated sing-long version- follows with a kids chorus as Sharon gets playful on the retro fun while Bram takes his turn at the helm, too.
Elsewhere, “The Drum Song” brings banjo and educational wordplay in the infectious how-to tune, while “The Hug Song” flows with a pretty and elegant setting where harmonicas add to the easily embraceable(!) atmosphere.
At the end, “Talk About Peace” offers plucked bass and finger snappin’ to a very serious song about the current state of affairs, and “Skinnamarinky Two”, a new version of their first hit, radiates upbeat sing-alongs and a universal memorableness.
Originally called Sharon, Lois & Bram at their inception in 1978, Lois passed away in 2015, though the remaining duo certainly carry on her legacy well with relevant, timeless and always necessary family music. Though Sharon and Bram, both in their 70s now, have retired from touring, this addictive album is certainly the next best thing.
Travels well with: The Laurie Berkner Band- Waiting For The Elevator; Moozika!- Moove To The Moozika!