An ambitious thirteen track debut, Love Forever is the new album from Shara Strand.
By Graeme Smith
As the title suggests, the album takes on romance, love and all its facets through an array of bright and emotive pop. There’s an accessibility to it all, not to mention some catchy, groovy melodies, particularly in moments like My Green Light and Anthem. The latter is a powerful and adventurous highlight.
Strand delivers each new track with plenty of charisma. She has a voice that’s easy to love. There’s also a timelessness about the album’s compositions.
Lead single, Second Chances, is a particularly striking moment, pairing a slow-building pop rock instrumental with lyrics that are full of fire and a certain sweetness. A soaring chorus will stay with you. I Will Follow, too, proves memorable thanks to its heartfelt message and soft funkiness.
Happy Ending proves another highlight thanks to its driving rhythm and bright message. Desperado is ghostly and swaying. Lionness gets funky during an electro pop dance number. Soul Dad is a touching ballad. Ascended ends things defiantly with an empowering anthem.
An artist who has previously charted on the Billboard charts stateside, the album also marks a comeback for Shara Strand after a career hiatus marked by grief and loss.
“I hope it brings moments of happiness, reminds someone they’re not alone and gives them a reason to move, feel and heal,” she says of her debut. “Whether you’re dancing, crying, or just catching your breath – this is for you!”
It could well be the start of something big for her.
Love Forever is out now and you can give it a listen below.