Reverend & The Makers: This How Happiness Feels?
Jon McClure delivers big anthems packed with deep emotion on This How Happiness Feels?. This labor of love, born during a time of loss, radiates joy through the Motown-inspired track ‘Haircut,’ where lyrics offer apologies to a loved one for overlooking their stylish new hairstyle.
‘Late Night Phone’ captures a midnight caller with humorous lyrics and music, blending easy listening vibes reminiscent of Sinatra backed by a colliery band. Robbie Williams joins on ‘F***ed Up,’ pondering fame’s twists that lead to ‘ending in therapy’ while desperately clinging ‘onto sanity.’
The album spans slow funk in ‘UFO’ to the Ennio Morricone-style grandeur of ‘Who Cares.’ Epic in scope, it leaves listeners feeling uplifted. Rating: ****
Lykke Li: The Afterparty
The Swedish artist lays bare her experiences on her sophisticated sixth album, The Afterparty, emerging stronger as both woman and musician. Her once-cute voice has matured into a rounded tone that complements organic instruments and signature electronica.
‘Not Gon Cry’ sets a tone of personal revolution with a gospel-infused chorus. ‘Happy Now’ channels female rage through orchestras and choirs in a disco explosion, while sweeping ‘Lucky Again’ evokes how Stevie Nicks might sound in the modern era.
The afterparty outshines the main event, and Li appears primed for her next chapter. Rating: ***
