Album Appreciation // Sam Brown // April Moon

Do you have an album that reminds you of growing up?

I have a few; Michael Jackson’s History is one of them but today I wanted to talk about Sam Brown.

It’s my understanding that not many people know who she is; I definitely don’t know anyone who knows about her except for her single Stop! which was covered ever so terribly by UK artist Jamelia. For me, though, Sam Brown was a huge part of my musical experience and, I think, where I first came to love female singer/songwriters.

She was a backing singer from the 80’s who made a splash with her first album [and single of the same name], Stop! in 1988. I was just a wee child and so that album didn’t resonate with me at all.

The album I love more than anything is her second studio foray; April Moon.

I listened to this album over and over again. Sat on the floor next to the stereo, reading the lyrics, singing along with headphones on obsessed.

It was 1990 and my mum must have bought the album but I swear I listened to it more. Sam Brown sings with the huskiness of a blues singer with a cough. Her music is like the 90’s captured perfectly in jangly piano melody and smashing symbols. To say I wished I had her voice is an understatement. I think because she was called Sam as well I thought it must be a sign but I don’t think I’ve ever developed the power she has, vocally. It doesn’t stop me singing the songs in the shower, though. Just listen to ‘With a Little Love’; I dare you not to be impressed at her belting it out.

I’ve recently started listening to it again and, for me, it’s one of those albums that’s held up. Maybe it’s nostalgia but I like to think it’s just a classic album.

If you haven’t listened to it please do! Here’s the track listing: