Hopeful notes

(From left) Sun June members Laura Colwell, Sarah Schultz, Stephen Salisbury, Michael Bain and Justin Haris

When Somewhere was released in February 2021 by Texas-based Sun June, it received rave reviews from critics and listeners alike. The expanded version, which was released earlier this month, came as a pleasant surprise with bonus tracks adding more personality to the album. Its soothing melodies make for a gentle listening experience and a settled sound fused with thematic elements.

This expanded album is sombre, nostalgic and cinematic in its essence. The songs speak of memories from a not-too-distant past, and take us on a journey of many snapshots of life. Singer-songwriter Laura Colwell's lyricism and voice meanders through these memories so gently that listeners are taken on a journey with each song. The rhythmic drums of Sarah Schultz and the steady bass by Justin Harris add an atmosphere of distant reminiscence. The combined guitars of Michael Bain and guitarist-songwriter Stephen Salisbury evoke elemental emotion that raises the songs to their transcending pinnacles. The overarching theme of nostalgia can be found in tracks like Everything I had, Finding out and Once in a while.

Overall, the musical treatment of each track is calming without any rude shocks. There's hope when an introspective showreel portrays the many daydreams of life. This second album feels optimistic when compared to the melancholic nostalgia of their first album. Despite themes of dislocation and regret, the songs raise the spirit to look forward to the days ahead.

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