SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: THE FREE SPIRITS – CIRCLE OF SOUND

THE FREE SPIRITS
CIRCLE OF SOUND
INDEPENDENT

The Free Spirits is a duo consisting of Chris Birkett (guitars, bass, guitar, organ, keys, horn arrangements, vocals) and Shari Tallon (pianist, flutist, tin whistle, vocals, keys, organ,). Two very talented artists who came together in 2016 and released their debut album Nov 11 that year. Both artists have successful solo careers and distinguished histories in the music world. For Circle Of Sound the duo take on very big topics and also a big sound. On this album, the two experiment with various rock genres. This album is a wonderful mixed bag of very different styles and sounds, and they all work together.

The album opens with “Cyber Crimes” which could be a lost Madness classic. Is the song paranoia about technology and surveillance or is it a dire warning. Birkett’s vocals with Tallon harmonizing is wonderful.  Elsewhere, there are some very definite prog rock vibes, rock vibes and pop music. Tallon’s flute brings to mind classic Jethro Tull but, in this instance, the flute and other whistles accentuate the song and melodies in an almost folk manner. See, all these influences merge together to form their own distinct sound.

Songs like “Taxman” (which is lyrically very biting) are very different from songs such as “Compassion”, which features Tallon on lead vocals. Where “Taxman” (no, not a Beatle cover) is quite a rocker, “Compassion” is a lovely ballad and is a very empathetic and powerful song. “Strawberry Moon”, on the other hand, is a middle eastern influenced song. Again, Birkett and Tallon deliver an exciting song, with a strong melody and great lyrics.

Strong melodies are the order of the day for this album. While there are many different styles and genres, one thing is in common, the melodies are strong and the production (courtesy Birkett) is flawless. The songs are arranged perfectly to highlight their strengths and in doing so, the entire album is elevated. Lyrically the album deals with love, relationships, politics, spirituality, and even care of the earth. Over the course of 16 songs, a lot of ground is covered. They are smart enough to end on a positive note, “Keep The Party Going”, which is a bass heavy dance song. It is almost a mantra and is the best possible way to end the album.

Circle Of Sound is an ambitious album from The Free Spirits. They succeed with their ambitions to make a very welcoming and exciting album. Circle Of Sound stands out with its sound and arrangement. It brings together many influences and puts them together to create a very unique sound and album. Circle Of Sound demonstrates how two very strong artists can collaborate and make some incredibly great music.

Chris Birkett Links

Shari Tallon Links