Aimee Allen is described as an “explosive, outspoken voice” on her website, and that is probably right when considering her earlier work.

But now it’s hard to imagine that when this album, at least music-wise, exudes gentleness and serenity. It’s a collection of mostly acoustic tracks that sound tailor made for contemplation in the sunshine or sitting by a campfire. Without delving more into comparisons, these are the images brought up while listening to A Little Happiness — the mellow tones of the music inspire it. It’s only in the reflective lyrics that less happy themes come up like heartbreak and organized religion.

Allen has a great voice, part soothing and part sass, and the slow reggae-like tones definitely benefit. This album actually brings to mind the much missed ska punks Sublime. One of their finest songs, "Santeria" even gets the cover treatment here, with this version coming close to the sun-drenched perfection of the original.

The funky piano in "Crazy" is a nice touch, which along with the sing-along chorus provides the song with an even more upbeat feel. "Calling The Maker" has much of the same influence, but with a much more thumping drum beat and backing vocals that bring to mind gospel singing, a touch that makes it more memorable

Not all songs on A Little Happiness have that bouncy, happy sound though. A few, like "Silence is Violence" deal with the same musical template, but differ in the melancholy sound they carry. The same can be said about "La La Land," a song about bad relationships and infidelity. Some of that edge that Aimee Allen is usually known for definitely comes across in the more sombre moments of this record. But A Little Happiness carries a more positive message in the end. Read the lyrics and this will come across.

This is a great summer album, perfect in every way for this season, but which will also sound good when listened to at any other time of the year.

Article Author: Mirza Gazic

A young and slightly weird man, born in Bosnia, spent 13 years living in Sweden and now resides in the UK. Works in media and advertising but wants to devote as much time as possible to writing.

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