We Are Mighty: Sustenance For The Struggle
Self-Released, 2022
8/10
Listen to We Are Mighty: Sustenance For The Struggle
A career teacher, singer and multi-instrumentalist who pulls songwriting influence from a lifetime of activism against sexism, racism and many other social issues, Fred Arcoleo brings along Ritt Henn, Rex Benincasa, Shanika Anderson, and Daniel A. Weiss to these well thought out and timeless folk songs.
“The Mighty” opens the listen with warm piano, soothing vocal harmonies and flowing, punchy folk-rock that unfolds with much grace and a crisp climate, and “Upside Down” follows with soaring vocals and a cozy, intimate demeanor that’s steeped in R&B nods and features Weiss on hammond organ.
The middle tracks include “All That It Takes” and “In The Dark Times”, where the former offers a swift folk feel amid Henn’s bass and Benincasa’s handling of bongos, shakers and tambourine, while “In The Dark Times” emits much slow burning atmosphere and benefits from Anderson’s harmony vocals.
Close to the end, “Lead The Way, Save The Day” embraces a world music appeal, where Arcoleo handles charango and reggae moments are present, and “GO!” exits with an upbeat and bouncy charm that enlists the Harlem children for the playful ambience.
A topical listen that is quite diverse and unpredictable, Arcoleo and company pull off a progressive folk affair that should be required listening during these challenging times.
Travels well with: Greg Greenway- Songs From The Beginning; Bett Padgett- Turning Over Stones