What makes a great album? Strong songwriting, excellent musicianship, a great voice and something just a little different, will do for a start. Brighter Day has all of these.
There's some great songs on here. With really strong melodies and interesting lyrics, there's something for everyone. For me, Aeroplane and Possibilities, Two Hearts and Cartwheel Queen are early standout tracks, but many of the others are slow burners for sure. The current single, Brighter Day, is going to add a little sunshine to the coming winter.
The musicians, including Sam, perform brilliantly. Steve White's drumming drives along the upbeat songs and Sam's violin on a couple of tracks, adds something a little different.
Sam's got a great voice. Always with emotion, but at times, deeply soulful. The songs are perfectly matched to his voice. There's real depth there as well, with at times a real grittiness.
So what's different? I think that it is the real feel good factor that surrounds the songs. That's not to say they are shallow in any way,they just make you want to sing along and dance [well almost]. Oh yes, Sam also manages to name check Hornsea, now that really is different.
Go out and buy, you won't be disappointed. In fact, buy two and give someone you love a little sunshine this Christmas.