Tamar Berk “Good Times For A Change”

Tamar Berk is one of those artists that we kept hearing a lot of good things about but somehow have failed to give her a listen. Thankfully, we’ve been able to put that right with her latest release “Good Times For A Change”.

Opening track “Good Impression” is a pretty apt title, as this is a wonderful introduction to the album. It’s a brilliant power pop driven number, the kind written for sunny days and good times. It’s not the only one like that on the album. Tracks like “Chicago” and “Artful Dodger” have that great ability of being fantastic pop songs but also have enough ‘indie factor’ to appeal to the ‘cool’ kids. Indeed, there’s a 90’s alternative feel to pop songs like “That’s Not A Lie” and “I Don’t Mind” that recall greats like Liz Phair.

Alongside those ‘pop’ moments there are also some more pensive tracks like “Book Of Change” and “Millennium”. Whilst “Sorrow Is Hunting” goes from a brooding song to one with a blistering guitar line that takes it into power ballad territory at some points. Whilst our preference is for the upbeat moments, these are the kind of tracks you can see her fans really taking to heart. What we really like about this album is the way it switches styles throughout. A special mention has to go the great power pop of “Trigger” which deliberately hints at Get Over It by Ok Go.

This is a great album and, given there seems to be a continuing surging interest in the 90’s alternative rock sound, you kind of think that the future has to be bright for Tamar Berk. It’s an album where there really is something for everyone. Some will enjoy the emotional depth of the ballads, whilst others (including us) will be drawn to the upbeat, power pop flavoured tunes. Definitely an album to check out and we’ll also be diving deeper into her back catalogue.