San Diego-based singer-songwriter Tamar Berk has just released her fourth full-length solo album, Good Times for a Change. The LP takes its name from the artist’s favourite song by The Smiths, “Please, Please, Please, Let Me Get What I Want,” which properly summarizes the album’s themes – a look at back past scars and ahead to future fears, written from somewhere in between the two perspectives.
“After my third solo album “Tiny Injuries” was released last year, I could feel myself slowly emerging from the dark cave of grief,” says Tamar of the new release. “Some days I would feel more positive and excited about things, but then other days I would take ten steps back and be right back there. I desperately want to change and feel okay, but there is also a side of me that wants to hold onto the sadness. Sometimes holding onto it is the only thing that keeps that person around, and I struggle with the fear of forgetting them. All the songs on Good Times for a Change feel like meditations on being somewhere in between the willingness to let go, and the desire to hold on…and exist in that place somewhere in between my past and future.”
The album kicks off with the recent single, “Good Impression”. The song boasts an alt-rock meets indie pop sound straight from the 90s, reminiscent of some of the best female indie voices of that decade, blurring the line between mainstream and alternative. From there, Good Times for a Change brings a catchy brightness with “That’s Not a Lie,” the wistful and nostalgic sound of “Chicago,” and a few mellower offerings to balance out the album. But then “You Trigger Me” shows the artist’s other side, with its faster pace, infectious vibe, and a sound that is sure to get the crowds moving at a live show. The up-tempo tracks continue with the fun boppiness of “Be My Friend,” and then the album comes to its conclusion with “Comin’ Around to me Again,” which might be my favourite of the 12 songs. This one starts out mellow and beautiful, with the vocals taking centre stage – only to kick into high gear with an indie rock grittiness at the halfway point. A solid end to this collection of songs, perfectly showcasing both sides of Tamar Berk’s sound.
Overall, Good Times for a Change is an album with heart, and captures the feeling of taking one last look back before moving on. Tamar Berk has let us in on her innermost thoughts, and given us a glimpse as she evolves as an artist–and as a person–onto better things. Good times, for a change.
Stream Good Times for A Change, the new album by Tamar Berk, on your preferred platform:
Spotify / Soundcloud / Bandcamp
Follow Tamar Berk on Facebook, Instagram, & TikTok
__
