Ken Sharp “I’ll Remember The Laughter”
The Pandemic forced artists back into the studio, and many embraced the newfound “time” to create. But no one I know did as much as artist Ken Sharp, who created a veritable box set of 50 songs for his 7th album, I’ll Remember the Laughter. Assisted by his amazing co-producer Fernando Perdomo, he creates a series of love letters to 1970s-era bubble gum, power pop, glam, baroque, soul, and folk styles. Lots of standouts allow you to pick and choose a “best of” from the bunch.
Sharp has been an excellent writer, and curator of these musical styles and creates many memorable songs here. Even with the copious selection, his batting average is high when it comes to potential “hits.” Opening with the Todd Rundgren-like “Maybe Next Summer” it plays with key shifts, harmonies, and a satisfying guitar coda. His falsetto is so high on “Cracking This Heart of Stone” I thought it was a Diana Ross imitation, and it is such a lovely tune. I’ve mentioned in the past that his vocals are not everyone’s cup of tea, but it definitely grows on you. “Dennis” is baroque bubblegum with a theatrical flair, “It Pays To Be A Rock and Roll Star” has cool glam guitar riffs, and “Maybe You’re Right” has that pure power pop hook. You get the idea. Sharp also includes a bunch of previously released singles and some covers. Like an everlasting gobstopper of music, this is highly recommended, despite Sharp’s contention that “Nothing’s Everlasting.”
The Boys With The Perpetual Nervousness “The Third Wave Of...”
The duo of Andrew Taylor (Dropkick) and Gonzalo Marcos (El Palacio de Linares) are back as The Boys With The Perpetual Nervousness. The sophomore album “The Third Wave Of…” Is more of the same feel-good jangle that made their debut so engaging. “As The Day Begins” greets us with a sticky hook, a fast tempo, and glorious harmonies. Fans of The Byrds, Teenage Fanclub, and CSNY will find this as comfortable as a favorite sweater.
Another Pandemic album, there are lots of highlights here, one of my favorites is the ballad “Isolation” with the ethereal Mary Lou Lord on backing vocals. The band hits its stride with the excellent combo of “In The Right” and “The Stars Go Round.” Both have superior melodies that are perfectly suited to Andrew’s smooth vocals. The remaining songs are also very good but don’t hook you as quickly. Still, no filler here, and very highly recommended.