Sean Forde goes for a sly sort wordplay and joy with the infinitely playful “Stronger When Broken”

Sean Forde – Stronger When Broken

Sean Forde goes for a sly sort wordplay and joy with the infinitely playful “Stronger When Broken”. Full of a tremendous, life-affirming sort of energy, Sean Forde’s album is propelled forward with such optimism. Highly articulate, Sean Forde’s lyricism and arrangements recall the giddiness of early They Might Be Giants. The stylistic choices further add to the lush soundscape, from classic rock to folk to country, all nicely brought together with an unabashed embrace of their strong pop sensibilities.

Nicely opening the album is the tender love ballad and yearning of “Would You Take Me Back” which at times becomes completely freewheeling, especially towards the end while the band dashes for the finish line. Stripping away the distortion Sean Forde goes for a directness with “Suddenly I”. Sounding akin to a long-lost hit from the Strokes is the perfectly balanced “Before I Break Down”. A dreamy atmosphere emanates from the blissful world of “When Everyone Is Gone”, as Sean Forde’s lyricism adds a degree of intimacy to the proceedings. Featuring a truly wonderful buildup is the ramshackle rhythms of the shaggy dog tale of “Unless It Rains”. Going for a warm approach the blurred beauty of “We Don’t Talk Anymore” shows off a shoegaze, dream-pop spirit. Neatly closing everything off on a perfect note is the driving riffs of “Love Is Patient, Love Is Kind” which goes for the absolute essentials.

Representing indie rock at its best and most thoughtful, Sean Forde’s “Stronger When Broken” is an absolute treasure to behold.