Slower
Funzalo, 2020
8/10
Although Jules Shear has penned over 20 albums, he’s also written hits for legends like Cyndi Lauper, The Bangles and Til’ Tuesday, among others. On Slower, the veteran singer-songwriter offers some of his most intimate song craft to date, where plenty of raw, slow burning songs unfold with his creative vision piqued.
“Sugar All Day” starts the listen with a very mature, warm setting of graceful keys from Pepe and John Sebastian’s spirited harmonica as Shear’s inviting vocals leave an indelible mark, and “Between Hell And Hello” follows with cautious percussion from Joe Majestro on a song that touches on timeless folk qualities.
Halfway through, “It’s Love” flows with breezy melodies on an indeed romantic album highlight, while “Feels Like Fall” recruits some form of Americana with Shear’s intimacy both being stirring and reflective. “Today Like Tomorrow” then touches on both jazz and classical sounds in its highly creative atmosphere.
At the end, “Until Now” pairs piano and light drums with Shear’s modest, expressive vocals, and “Call It Love” exits the listen bare, soothing and full of emotion on a sublime finish.
The author of some of the best love songs in the area of pop music, Shear gets personal with heartfelt melodies and eloquent wordplay here that proves that, at nearly 70 years old, his craft is no less impactful.
Travels well with: Peter Himmelman- Press On; Peter Mulvey- There Is Another World