In a world seemingly devoid of joy, Hollie Cook's fourth album is a very welcome salve indeed. It’s not just the deliciously mellow groove of the genre and her mellifluous tones, but the feeling of stepping away from the everyday – a holiday from the horrible – which makes this a musta-have for all summer gatherings.
At first listen, Happy Hour can seem a bit "samey" but that’s an illusion. Stick with it. In fact, this, her first self-produced effort is something of a triumph. Dreamy and serene, this is Lovers' Rock for the Covid generation. Deceptively simple, the first three songs – title track, "Moving On" and first single "Full Moon Baby" are perfectly poppy but in a seriously cool way. "My Way" picks up the tempo, creating something almost anthemic – all brass sass and euphoric harmonies. Get lost until you're found at the sweetest beach in town. If only.
"Love in the Dark" is as sensuous as the title would make you hope. Cook's velvety delivery is exceptional here. "Gold Girl" makes a wry nod to 007 and uses sweeping strings to build the slightly retro feel. "Kush Kween" is a stand-out belter, most probably not set to trouble the single charts given its celebration of growing your own weed. Here she is joined by Jamaican singer Jah9 to fabulous effect. "This world can be a sick place, with so many getting shit-faced." Hollie has the antidote.
The rest of the album continues the good work, and lyrically, a whole lot of ground is covered. But drift along for the ride without thinking about things too much for the best experience (man). As George once trilled, all that's missing is the sea.
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