Album Review: Michael Franti & Spearhead - Stay Human Vol II

Historically, Michael Franti & Spearhead have made music with pretty heavy themes and certainly there’s some strong staring down The Big Issues here too. You don’t have to look further than This World Is So Fucked Up (But I Ain't Ever Giving Up On It), a clear dig at Trump and his crones with a wonderfully anthemic, singable chorus, or the riff-driven When The Sun Begins To Shine, complete with some fun backing vox.

Overall, some gloriously optimistic overtones characterise this release, urging the listener to dance, reflect and perhaps even forget the state of things for a while. Title track Stay Human 2 pushes for keeping faith in a Marley-esque One Love style, while Little Things and Only Thing Missing Was You 2 (feat. HIRIE) are just sweet love songs — and what else does the world need now? For a ‘lighter in the air’ moment give Nobody Cries Alone a go, or the gentle lullaby, Show Me Your Peace Sign, to rock the weariest freedom fighter to sleep.

Like the sounds and energy that has characterised his output to date, this album mixes fine musicianship with hope and fight.