Kai Brown
Better Now
How Now Brown Cow/Redeye
In his post-Jackopierce-and-solo-career days, Cary Pierce has become something of an A&R mogul for independent artists. He has produced excellent records for Graham Colton (who later signed with Universal), Creede Williams and now for Australian import Kai Brown.
Brown was formerly a member of the Aussie band The Tommy Flowers, but he relocated to Dallas to work with Pierce on Better Now, his debut solo album. The result is an enjoyable collection of straight ahead pop-rockers and ballads. Pierce is not only responsible for the album’s slick production; you can also hear his songwriting influence all over songs like the memorable “Up All Night.” He also calls on the rhythm section expertise of Vertical Horizon’s Ed Toth and Sean Hurley. Brown’s highly commercial voice is particularly strong on the more upbeat pop-rock songs, such as the brilliant “Goodbye Goodnight” and album standout “Believe Again,” and since he co-wrote every song, his talent is clear to see.
Songs like “Money and Love” and “See Through Me” sound a little derivative, but album closer “Always” raises the standard to make Better Now a more than promising debut.
Kai Brown: http://www.kaibrownmusic.com
