In the light of day, Sharif shines like the sun; in the evening, Kisses and Lies, Sharif’s debut album, is as cool and sleek as the night is long. Kisses and Lies is an elaborate musical collaboration of smooth and sexy R&B grooves, poppy melodies and clever underlying country flare.
Sharif’s soulful voice is backed by an unyielding ensemble of musicians. Kisses and Lies is stacked with intricate instrumentation that blends flawlessly and produces a sound that is comfortable yet fresh. On tracks, “Far From You” and “Another Wasted Rose”, Sharif’s easy-listening style rarely stops your foot from tapping and in a brilliant display of his versatility, the cover of Maroon 5’s “Won’t Go Home without You” could almost be mistaken for an original song for Kisses and Lies.
Kisses and Lies is an impressive mix of genres and lyrical fortitude. A silky voice, cheerful melodies, creative musicianship, and steadfast songwriting make Kisses and Lies a well-rounded, enduring record from beginning to end. – Jackson Jones
