Philadelphia’s own Sharon Lia Band has delivered a musical odyssey with their latest album, EXPANSE, released on August 30, 2024. The double album is a powerful fusion of symphonic rock, lyrical vulnerability, and cinematic instrumental arrangements, drawing listeners into an immersive experience of raw emotion and deeply personal storytelling. Sharon Lia, the band’s dynamic frontwoman, along with guitarist Rick Jannotti and a talented team of musicians, takes listeners on a heartfelt journey with a sound that blends influences from the likes of Pat Benatar, Coldplay, Pink Floyd, and Evanescence.
EXPANSE is more than just a collection of songs; it is a deeply personal narrative pulled from Sharon Lia’s life. From the profound pain of losing a sister to the joy and fear of finding—and almost losing—the love of her life, Lia bravely lays her emotions bare in every track. This openness is central to the album’s appeal, as Lia’s “strong yet vulnerable voice” delivers each song with a haunting mix of confidence and fragility, as described by music writer Andre Avanessian. Her powerful storytelling, combined with the band’s lush symphonic rock arrangements, creates a sound that is both intimate and expansive, inviting listeners to connect with the stories on a deeply emotional level.
What sets EXPANSE apart from many rock albums is its innovative dual-format presentation. Each song is offered not only as a rock track but also as a symphonic vocal version, with the second disc dedicated to instrumental arrangements. This layered approach allows the listener to experience each song in multiple forms, with the symphonic renditions adding a cinematic depth and grandeur. The physical album, released on Sharrick Records, is a collectible two-CD set, complete with a lyric booklet and stunning artwork designed by Lia herself. From Morse code to symbolic white doves, the packaging is full of intricate “Easter Eggs” that tie into the themes of the album, creating a multidimensional experience for fans and collectors alike.
Musically, EXPANSE draws on a range of influences, from the soaring vocals of Pat Benatar to the atmospheric soundscapes of Pink Floyd. The band also channels elements of Evanescence, Coldplay, and Yes, crafting a sound that is both familiar and uniquely their own. The album’s symphonic rock foundation is complemented by softer, dream-pop moments, as heard in tracks like “Blue Skies,” which features more delicate vocals while maintaining the album’s emotional intensity.
The production on EXPANSE is as polished as it is emotive, with each instrument given room to shine. Guitarist Rick Jannotti’s electrifying solos, Rhodney Miller’s (Lauryn Hill, Kindred The Family Soul) powerful basslines, and Matt Dunn’s dynamic keyboard work all come together to create a richly textured sound. This meticulous attention to detail is highlighted in Earmilk’s review of the album’s lead single, “Love You Forever,” which praises the “polished yet potent” production and notes that the band’s four-year journey in creating EXPANSE has clearly paid off.
At the heart of EXPANSE are themes of love, loss, resilience, and hope. Tracks like “Love You Forever,” “Invisible,” and “I Will Wait” reflect Lia’s personal experiences while delivering universally relatable messages. “Love You Forever,” for instance, is a celebration of enduring love, while “Invisible” touches on feelings of isolation and longing. Each song feels like a chapter in a larger story, with Lia’s vocals conveying a deep sense of yearning and emotional complexity. Andre Avanessian’s observation of Lia’s voice as one that carries a “fragile strength” is especially fitting, as her delivery balances vulnerability and determination, capturing the essence of each lyric.
The creation of EXPANSE was a labor of love for Sharon Lia and her bandmates. The four-year process included the release of three preview singles—“Love You Forever,” “Invisible,” and “I Will Wait”—all of which were met with critical acclaim. The album’s release was supported by a successful crowdfunding campaign, which not only allowed the band to complete the project but also engaged their fanbase in an exciting and interactive way.
One of the standout features of the EXPANSE release is its accompanying merchandise, which includes an 83-page songbook, lyric books, journals, and bracelets, all designed by Lia. The band also launched a Tunespeak giveaway, which garnered over 2 million entries, demonstrating the widespread anticipation and excitement surrounding the album.
EXPANSE solidifies the Sharon Lia Band’s place in the symphonic rock world, increasing their streaming numbers by 1000% and doubling their catalog. The album’s success is not only a testament to the band’s musical talent but also to their authenticity and dedication to their craft. Known for their passionate live performances, the band is now preparing for a tour scheduled for Fall-Winter 2024-25, which will include performances in planetariums, festivals, and regional venues throughout the Northeast.
In addition to her work with the band, Sharon Lia is the founder of the nonprofit organization Ladies Who Rock for a Cause, which supports women in need through music-based events. Her commitment to both her music and her community further highlights her as a multifaceted artist whose influence extends beyond the stage.
EXPANSE is a triumphant achievement for the Sharon Lia Band, blending symphonic rock, powerful storytelling, and innovative production into a cohesive and emotionally resonant whole. The album invites listeners to embark on a journey through life’s highs and lows, guided by Sharon Lia’s deeply personal lyrics and the band’s soaring instrumentation.
With plans for a new stage show, expanded tours, and growing critical acclaim, the Sharon Lia Band is poised to reach even greater heights. EXPANSE is not just an album; it’s an experience—one that promises to stay with listeners long after the final note fades. As Earmilk aptly summarized, “The four years devoted to crafting EXPANSE have been well invested,” and the result is an unforgettable addition to the rock music landscape.
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