Brothers and Sisters
Fortunately (Calla Lily)Cracking open the cellophane wrapping the cardboard sleeve of Fortunately, one can sense the sunshine within. The disc doesn’t disappoint. Brothers and Sisters’ second effort is big, bright, and balmy. It doesn’t travel far from their debut, but it’s a step up in songwriting, from the propulsive “You’re Gone” to psychedelic soundscape “The Trees Are Bare.” There’s also the sense that although singer and songwriter Will Courtney steers this local ship, his band has matured in ways that anchor his boyish tendencies. AM radio pop sensibilities abound, catch the ba ba baa’s of “That’s How It Goes” and the sibling harmonies, with sister Lily Courtney, of “Wash Away.” While the country-rock vibe and near orchestral vocals evoke comparisons to the Byrds and the Beach Boys, there’s a subtle reflection of latter-day popsters like Let’s Active and Continental Drifters, as well. With short bursts of delight and affecting moments of serenity, Fortunately doesn’t time travel as much as expose the possibilities of today’s pop music.
This article appears in July 18 • 2008.