Be Brave
Self-Released, 2023
8/10
Catherine Miles (lead and harmony vocals) and Jay Mafale (guitars, harmony vocals, shaker) bring their genuine and heartfelt songwriting to these 10 songs that surround loss, joy, family, and courage, and it welcomes Eric Puente, Jason Rafalak, Paul Silverman and Brad Yoder.
The warm strumming of “March” opens the listen with Miles’ expressive voice alongside Puente’s precise drumming, and “This House” follows with Rafalak’s playfully plucked bass that suits the vivid storytelling of the soft delivery.
The middle track belongs to the melodic “Rubber Band”, where Silverman’s lively keyboards are met with soulful singing, while “Snake Oil” places Silverman on accordion for the rowdy and soaring, festive rocker.
Close to the end, the frisky and upbeat “Cricket” makes great use of crisp drums and Yoder’s animated glockenspiel that complements Miles’ diverse range, and the dreamy, eloquent “Remember To Be Brave” exits with flowing melodies and Miles’ charming singing making an indelible impression.
A highly emotional listen that touches on plenty of socio-political topics, the pop and theatrical aspects are greatly appreciated and Miles & Mafale’s modern-folk is both sage-like and stirring.
Travels well with: Aaron Smith & The Coal Biters- The Legend Of Sam Davis; Brian Kalinec- The Beauty Of It All