Jeremy
Brighter Day (Jam)
https://www.jamrecordings.com/catalog.php?inventory_id=3118
Not only is it a given for Jeremy Morris to release a new album every few months, but the peerless quality of his work is to be further counted on. Therefore, it truly goes without saying, the Portage, Michigan-based singer, songwriter and multi-diversified instrumentalist’s current concoction, “Brighter Day” contains such perennial prizes.
A number of Jeremy’s friends were brought on board to participate in the project. Among these notable compadres are Tim Boykin of the Lolas, Herb Eimerman (solo artist, the Britannicas, the Nerk Twins, Hot Mama Silver) and Randy Massey (solo artist, Hot Mama Silver), while drummer Dave Dietrich – who has played with Jeremy since the late eighties – also appears on the disc.
Piled high with electrifying guitars, attended by Jeremy’s trademark Beatles meets Byrds vocals, ringing chords and a snappy and sturdy arrangement, the title track of the album pitches earnest optimism in both sound and verse. The lion’s share of the set is steeped in a similar sonic mold, so be prepared to be swept away by a tidal wave of rocking power pop thrills.
A sinister tone, pin-sharp hooks and penetrating riffs illustrate the fiercely catchy “Devil In Disguise,” which profiles the actions and intentions of a seriously wicked fellow. Segments of hard and heavy guitar flourishes, bordering on metallic, link arms with piping hot pop melodies on cuts like “Bury The Hatchet,” “Love You Anyway” and “Hand Biter,” where “Meant To Be” dips a dash of space-age psychedelic seasonings into the stew.
The dual spirit of Bo Diddley and Buddy Holly surfaces on the thumping shuffle of “New Happy Helmet,” and “Now You See Me” and “Drink It Up” twinkle and chime with tuneful energy. A sassy and swaggering groove, tempered by softer and sparkly textures, characterizes “You Must Believe,” and the inisisent stride and jingling crunch of “Waiting For My Ship” proposes a surefire radio-instructed vibe.
Other pick hits presented on “Brighter Day” are the brash garage rock grit of “Out Of My Cave” and a pair of precious piano-directed ballads – “Can’t Make You Stay” and “Love That Lasts Forever” – which really push the point home when it comes to expressing emotional attachments. The album additionally features a quartet of cool cover versions, including 20/20’s classic “Yellow Pills,” Cheap Trick’s bold and punchy “Take Me Back,” the harmoniously syncopated rhythms of the Move/Electric Light Orchestra’s “Do Ya” and Rick Nelson’s “Thank You Lord,” an invigorating country flavored gospel hymn.
As previously mentioned, you can always rely on Jeremy to deliver the goods, and this fantastic record confirms his mettle. Bottled tight with inspired singing, exciting instrumentation and an authentic attitude, “Brighter Day” pops and rocks in all the right places at all the right moments.
