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It’s simple:  Brett Harris is Durham, North Carolina’s best kept secret that’s not so secret anymore.  A gifted multi-instrumentalist with an impressive resume, Mr. Harris releases his new four-song e.p., Mr. Sunshine, on September 9th.  Just for whetting your appetites, he’s played with The dB’s as keyboardist and guitarist; he’s also been part of the touring company that performs the Big Star 3rd and now #1 Record albums in concert.  I don’t think I need to go further.  Most importantly, he is a wonderful singer and songwriter and this E.P. is a wonderful companion to his debut album, 2010’s self titled release.

“Out Of The Blue” is a very Lennon-esque styled track but full, rich and is produced with an ear for detail to that Beatle manner of arrangement; a glorious way to start proceedings.  It’s evident that Mr. Harris knows how to write, construct and deliver classic pop with his own imprint, which is buoyant.  Listen to his voice; it works as another instrument – a perfect flow with the musicians. The title track, “Mr. Sunshine” has a bright and sunny guitar strum; if I may, it almost reminds me of Bowie’s “Sound And Vision”, melodically speaking,  but has a lot of soul, with its horn flourishes and the backing harmonies.  The live rendition of Big Star’s “Kanga Roo” induces chills – Mr. Harris’ rendition is passionate and takes the song to another emotional level.  “When You Get The Chance” is a sweet, subdued and charming number to close this four song collection in a very satisfying manner.

Four songs of diverse style; four songs of heart and skill.  Remember the name:  Brett Harris.  And buy the records.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Mr. Wonderful will be available September 9th, 2014

http://www.brettharrismusic.com/

About the Author

Rob Ross

Rob Ross has been, for good, bad or indifferent, involved in the music industry for over 30 years - first as guitarist/singer/songwriter with The Punch Line, then as freelance journalist, producer and manager to working for independent and major record labels. He resides in Staten Island, New York with his wife and cats; he works out a lot, reads voraciously, loves Big Star and his orange Gretsch. Doesn't that make him neat?

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