Following his highly recommended Blue Love LP (number 8 on my 2024 year-end list), NYC singer-songwriter Lorne Behrman returns with If Heaven Didn’t Hurt. The new album is dedicated to the father-in-law he never knew (“Paid his debt // Died that afternoon // Army vet // Couldn’t end it too soon”—from Ain’t It Funny), and comes across as a heartfelt portrait of vibrant people finding reasons to keep moving, like melancholy with a pulse.

Once again, these ten songs radiate a cool New York glow, but the yacht-punk sound has given way to warm soul, funk, and doo-wop influences. The distinctive talk-singing naturally keeps your attention on the stories, with amazing female backing vocals surrounding them as an inviting aura. This is a record steeped in loss and late-night loneliness, yet somehow leaves the door ajar for the possibility that tomorrow will arrive with a little more mercy.

If Heaven Didn’t Hurt—produced and mixed by Matt Chiaravalle—is out digitally and on CD through Spaghetty Town Records. Featuring Matt Dougherty (bass), Rob Clores (keys), Howard Alper (drums), Danielle McCullough (backing vocals), with Arno Hecht and Larry Etkin (horns) on Ain’t It Funny.

Add to wantlist: Bandcamp || Spaghetty Town