Music isn’t purely a form of enjoyment for the listener, but in many ways, it’s a release for an artist too. It’s a flexible tool with which they can carve their tales of heartbreak and love, and stories of hope or despair. An example is the second EP from Sara Broman, the sum of years of change and transformation now fused with soul, country and rock.
Fellow Swedish singer/songwriter albums such as Karin Fransson – Private Behaviour (2011) and the incredibly underrated Birdcage (2016) by Imla come to mind as both align with Sara Bromans’ sweet melodies, lyrical clarity and caressing tone.
Soulful at the outset, the EP’s title song ‘Dragonfly‘ offers deeper meaning in the lyrics and profound symbolism. Sara lost a dear friend, and on hearing the news she saw two Dragonflies flying past. The smooth arrangement glides like its namesake – delicate and beautiful, before soaring with dynamic guitar chords.
An outpouring of love follows on ‘I Can’t Believe It’s True‘ before ‘Oh Darling‘ swings in with a soulful/pop vibe. Sara’s lyrics of awakening to one’s worth is catchy and uplifting thanks in part to the delightful fusion of gentle African rhythms. ‘Stop This Running Around‘ brings the softer side of pop and a rocking ‘Shania Twain’ feeling.
The EP rounds of with Sara singing in her mother tongue on “Många Röster Talar” (Many Voices Speaking). The words, inspired by Karin Boye, a renowned Swedish poet, demonstrate the natural melody in the Swedish language. Performed almost like a duet, with a harmonious joint vocal, the track is angelic and dreamy.
Sara Broman has spread her wings and produced a glistening timeless-blend of Swedish music. And just like the albums of her predecessors, it will always be worth a revisit.
WEBSITE: https://sarabroman.com
The Review
A glistening timeless-blend of Swedish music.
Review Breakdown
- 3.5