Release Date: August 22, 2019
Label: Sharrick Records
Sharon Lia leads from the front in the epic and
emotive, Beyond Wonderland, the debut album from the Philadelphia-based
band of her namesake. The ever-versatile Sharon chaperones us through the album’s
varying themes with her compelling lead vocals and adept piano performances. The
singer is at once soulful and candid on this collection, which is an ethereal
meeting point of joy and nostalgia, of a past to be forgotten and a future to
be fought for. The luscious instrumentation provided by guitarist Rick Jannotti
and drummer Howie Fallon bolster the touching, thought-provoking message of this
work. While the trio hasn’t struck gold with this debut, it’s clear they’re not
far off.
After a brooding beginning, “Sick Addiction” explodes
into a badass crescendo of electrifying guitar and thumping percussion. The
tormented lyrics showcase Sharon Lia Band’s talent for creating sensational,
melodic rock with a twist of poignant tenderness. On the aptly named “Anomie,”
Sharon’s harmonious, gentle vocals paint the portrait of a woman let down and
misunderstood by her society. Over a celestial arrangement, the defiant singer
highlights the power of determination, self-realization, and grit.
“Why Can’t We Pretend?” is a gorgeous, sentimental and
dreamy track. It boasts a blissful string section, a triumphant drum kick, and Sharon’s
vocal prowess is given the space and backing to fully flourish. On “Hanging by
a Thread” the singer similarly wows with an immaculate vocal performance. This
track immediately grabs attention with a cadenced organ, crisp drums, and
bluesy bass. Despite the smooth, polished sound of this track, the lyrics
allude to a tense precarity, an uncertain danger, an imminent threat. This
sensitivity is what adds layers of meaning to the band’s particular alternative-rock
sound.
The tracklisting is masterful here as the band follows
the melancholic end of “Hanging by a Thread” with the confident, sexy,
strutting opening of “Free to Fall.” The beat oozes tenacity made up of a quivering
electric guitar, a celestial synth, and a rapping drumbeat. The singer’s
soaring voice proclaims fearlessness, boldness, and freedom. Then, Sharon Lia
Band gifts us their unique take on a rock ballad in “Hunter and Slayer.”
It’s tinkling piano and soft string section elicit a mysterious, fairytale
feeling. While Sharon’s graceful singing evokes images of a somber, smoky bar-room
performance one could only find in a black-and-white film.
On the album’s finale, “Beyond Wonderland.” a lurking
bass line is joined by cracking drums while an electric guitar looms in the
background, waiting to emerge noisily for the sensational climax. The
brazen lyrics deal with the voyage of life, creativity, and self-discovery. It
generates a feeling of harmonious completion, as the outro begins, we hear
birds chirping and the soft sound of rainfall.
The ambition and confidence needed to actualize this
debut album’s grand vision show Sharon Lia Band has the attributes for a bright
future in music. Beyond Wonderland is sure to leave you looking forward
to this band’s next adventure.
Key Tracks Include: “Hanging
by a Thread”, “Free to Fall”, and “Hunter and Slayer”
Nicholas Lane-MuzikMan.net
Staff
October 17, 2019
REVIEWS
PROVIDED BY:
Tracks:
1. Sick Addiction
2. Anomie
3. Why Can’t We Pretend?
4. Hanging by a Thread
5. Free to Fall
6. Hunter and Slayer
7. Beyond Wonderland
1. Sick Addiction
2. Anomie
3. Why Can’t We Pretend?
4. Hanging by a Thread
5. Free to Fall
6. Hunter and Slayer
7. Beyond Wonderland
