Album Review: Together

Four-piece family band Thomas Brothers are starting 2020 with the exciting release of their second album Together. Having played music together since they were learning to walk, forming a band was a natural progression for the talented family. You can hear the fun the brothers had making the album in the groovy rhythms and blended voices.

The opening track Free begins with mystical arpeggios on a glockenspiel, creating a sense of wonder and searching. The lyrics discuss nostalgia for childhood, a theme that is woven through the album, and appropriate for a family project. Free quickly builds into a pop anthem through the use of a broken synths and a trap beat. The tune features vocals from sister, Esther Ruth, who makes appearances through the whole album, keeping the sound fresh.

Give Me A Sign changes pace with a more intimate sound and eerie backing vocals. The brothers demonstrate their aptitude for weaving classical piano into a more “pop” soundscape. The title track Together is an endearing piece about getting along and enjoying each other’s company. While a little cheesy, the sentiment is very sweet, and the energy is contagious.

A favourite is the more mellow Dreams, which boasts smooth baritone vocals and a soothing piano line. The song builds with slow percussion and creative use of synthesised strings. It would be exciting to see Thomas Brothers experiment with the use of live strings, as in this piece we see the potential for an epic pop ballad.

The year is already looking eventful for Thomas Brothers, as they are taking the stage at Festival One on January 24th and 25th to celebrate the release of their album. I look forward to seeing what else 2020 has in store for this talented group of musicians, and I am excited to see how they develop their sound as time progresses.