Over the past few weeks, I’ve listened to the song “Can You Feel the Sunshine” a lot, a song from Sonic R, a Sonic the Hedgehog racing game released for the Sega Saturn in 1997. I’ve never played the game but I’ve heard the song somewhere along the way in my extensive exposure to Sonic the Hedgehog (shout out to Bryan if you showed me this song initially because you probably did back in middle school). I decided to listen to the whole album a few days ago and have had it on repeat since.
The album feels like a musical translation of 90s optimism. Or at least of my impression of 90s optimism. I don’t have any memories of the less than 6 months I spent in the 90s so I’ve only felt this in a secondary way through 90s media but as far as I can tell this is a good representation of it. Every song is addressed to “you” so as the listener you can self-insert if you want. In every song, TJ Davis sings to “you” about making it in this tough world together and her exuberant performance along with Richard Jacques’ bombastically driving Eurodance instrumentals make you feel like you really can make it through the tough times and come out on top.
So, Does it sound good? Yes, this is one of the most sonically pleasing albums I’ve ever heard. The music is incredibly well-composed and the performances back it up. The sounds chosen all complement each other like they were made to be played together. Everything is incredibly cohesive. I don’t know if I can say it’s perfect but I can’t find a flaw.
Did I like it? Yes, this has been so much fun to listen to since I fully discovered it.
Do I recommend it? If you like your music fun and danceable I wholeheartedly recommend this. It’s perfect for listening in the shower to start your day.
I loved listening to this album, I used to write off soundtracks since I figured they were made to accompany another piece of work I didn’t think they were worth listening to on their own. I’m glad I’ve had a change of heart.