Brother Valiant – ‘Better Luck Next Time’ [EP] [Album Review]

Alternative folk-pop artist Brother Valiant, the musical project of singer-songwriter AJ Amsterdam, releases his new EP, Better Luck Next Time, a collection of songs about accepting life’s imperfections.

Brother Valiant explains:

“Nothing is perfect. Nobody has it all figured out one hundred percent. But at the end of the day, we should embrace the journey we are on, and owe it to ourselves to find fulfillment along the way.”

In 2015, the singer-songwriter dropped “Little House” and “Devil,” followed by 2016’s long player, Thus, He Was.

Brother Valiant has played extensively throughout the East Coast at such notable venues as The Iridium, Rockwood Music Hall, The Knitting Factory, City Winery, and The South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC).

Better Luck Next Time begins with the title track, featuring a resonant, riding acoustic guitar topped by Brother Valiant’s smooth, dreamy voice, highlighted by subtle, sonic nuances.

A personal favourite because of its tangs of America crossed with Paul Simon, “Lady Daisy” rides a deliciously trotting rhythm as waves of brass add sweeping layers of colour. His bright vocals, backed by glowing harmonies, infuse the lyrics with charming, upbeat surfaces.

Brother Valiant, photo by Percey

The beautifully wrought and tender “A Dream So Clear” travels on a picked guitar, while his voice drips with poignant passion, capturing the love-never-dies feeling even after the loss of one’s soulmate.

Another gem, at first gentle and full of shimmering tones, “Long Island Sound” slowly builds to take on full-fledged folk-pop energy, replete with low, braying brass textures that assume stronger dynamics. Conveying a warm nostalgia, Brother Valiant’s vocals evoke aromas of fond memories.

Brother Valiant’s second album delivers a yummy, elegant acoustic palette to disclose the fundamental charm of life.

Better Luck Next Time Track Listing:

1. Better Luck Next Time
2. Lady Daisy
3. C’est La Vie
4. Idiotface
5. A Dream So Clear
6. Still Feel Love
7. Long Island Sound

Run Time: 22:23
Release Date: August 14, 2024
Record Label: Independent